A First for Business in the Highlands
Tuesday 22nd September marked a new experience for organisations in the Highlands as the region’s only dedicated business to business exhibition, Highland Spotlight, took place as a virtual event for the first time.
Organisers Inverness Chamber of Commerce took the bold decision to hold the popular event in this way following the success of earlier virtual networking events and feedback from members. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in all the Chamber’s events taking place online since the end of March, with Highland Spotlight its biggest and most ambitious venture to date.
Over 100 exhibitors and visitors logged into a secure, interactive platform on the day where they could move around independently to view virtual exhibition stands, download exhibitor information, connect with other attendees and hold one to one video meetings.
They were also able to join seminars on connectivity and innovation and a discussion with Chief Executive of Eden Court, James Mackenzie-Blackman, all of which were live streamed during the event.
And in another set of ‘firsts’ for Highland Spotlight, the virtual event transcended geographical limits to involve neighbouring Chambers across the Highlands, Islands and Moray as well as raise £250 from bookings for Inverness Chamber charity members Connecting Carers.
Paula Nicol, Deputy Chief Executive & Head of Events at Inverness Chamber of Commerce, said: “COVID-19 may have changed how we all live and work, but we know from our members that they still value the opportunity to network with other businesses, and perhaps even more so now.
“Inverness Chamber exists to connect, support and represent businesses across the Highlands and if we are to continue to fulfil that mission in these challenging times, we have to be ambitious in our approach.”