VISITABERDEENSHIRE is offering local firms the chance to join the latest round of its Game Changer for Tourism Businesses programme.

Applications are now open for 12 businesses to take part in the scheme, designed to help business growth.

Developed and offered in partnership by VisitAberdeenshire and Opportunity North East the programme helps businesses identify target markets, understand consumer needs and supports businesses to tailor services to reflect the experiences that visitors seek. Participants leave the programme with a growth plan for their business.

The 2025 Game Changer for Tourism Businesses programme will welcome its seventh cohort of participants, having supported over 60 businesses since its inception in 2019.

It will run from mid-January to the end of March and includes seven full-day business growth workshops, three one-to-one coaching sessions and a best practice learning day. The programme is once again offered free of charge to successful applicants. Further information for prospective applicants on what is involved will be provided at an online briefing on Thursday 3 October, from 4.15 to 5pm.

Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire said: “The Game Changer programme quite literally lives up to its name and provides businesses with essential tools to facilitate growth. Amidst an often crowded and competitive market, the programme gives a business the clarity it needs to identify direction of travel and how it can evolve to meet customers’ changing expectations.

“I encourage any tourism businesses that wishes to take advantage of the skills, knowledge and guidance provided by the programme’s contributors to apply for this year’s Game Changer.”

Applications close at 5pm on Thursday 31 October. To find out more, view workshop dates and complete an application form, please visit VisitAberdeenshire’s website.