The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch Phase Two of our fast paced Themed Competition, Innovation in Support of Operations. Run on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, this competition aims to identify and accelerate innovative solutions and techniques, ensuring they can be scaled and deployed faster than our adversaries.
There are five new Challenge Areas:
• UAS Propulsion
• Repair of 155mm Artillery barrels
• Autonomous navigation systems for UAS and USVs
• Seekers
• UAS detect and destroy
The UK Government is continually assessing lessons from world events. From these lessons, we seek to rapidly adopt solutions that enhance our military and economic advantage. This competition is designed to identify nearly-ready solutions and techniques that can be accelerated into scalable and deliverable effect faster than our adversaries.
Do you have a suitable innovation? Read the full competition document and submit a proposal.
In short:
• DASA has launched Phase 2 of Innovation in Support of Operations
• Funded by the MOD
Learn more and submit a proposal
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch the Maritime Innovation Challenge 2025 as a new AUKUS Competition. Following the ministerial announcement in December 2023 to launch an innovation challenge series under the AUKUS partnership, this competition is the second iteration of AUKUS Pillar 2’s Innovation Challenge Series. The challenge has been trilaterally agreed and is being run as a single multi-stage competition, across the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) in Australia, the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) in the United Kingdom and the Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) in the United States.
AUKUS partners are seeking to research and develop innovations to enable the synchronisation and teaming of multiple undersea systems.
In short:
• DASA has launched a new AUKUS Competition: Maritime Innovation Challenge 2025.
• This is the second iteration of AUKUS Pillar 2’s Innovation Challenge Series which will run concurrently in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• The UK competition run by DASA is open to all nations, although entrants from Australia or the United States can refer to their national competition page if they prefer.
• Up to $8m USD in funding is available.
Learn more and submit a proposal
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) has published updated guidance for its Open Call for Innovation service.
The refreshed guidance includes updates to the submission cycles for 2025-26, as well as other updates to information and pre-sift requirements contained within. These updates aim to streamline the application process and provide clearer parameters for innovators.
The new guidance will take effect from 1200hrs 25 February 2025 (GMT). All submissions from this date will need to align with the updated requirements.
We encourage potential applicants to:
• Review the new guidance before submitting proposals
• Check the submission deadlines for 2025-26
• Contact the DASA team with any questions via accelerator@dstl.gov.uk
For full details of the updated guidance, visit DASA Open Call for Innovation and select the link for the current open cycle.
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch a new Market Exploration around Non-Compressible Haemorrhage (NCH).
Run on behalf of Research and Clinical Innovation (RCI) Research, Surgeon General’s Department, this Market Exploration is seeking to identify existing technologies and to understand who is doing work in this area and to uncover novel solutions for treating NCH at a combat casualty scene.
NCH refers to bleeding from anatomical structures that cannot be controlled, or only partially controlled, with application of external pressure, undertaken through an overlying tourniquet or direct manual pressure. Such bleeding is the chief cause of otherwise preventable battlefield death. NCH is highly lethal with a mortality rate of 85%.
If you work in this area or have an innovation that you think could be relevant to this area of research, please read the full Market Exploration document and submit a proposal!
The deadline for submissions is midday 12:00 (BST) on 15 April 2025.
In short:
• DASA has launched a new Market Exploration: Non-Compressible Haemorrhage – Novel Technologies
• Submissions close at midday on Tuesday 15 April 2025 (BST)
Learn more and submit a proposal
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch a new Themed Competition called ‘Innovations in dermal protection against liquid chemicals’.
Run on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Home Office, this competition is seeking proposals that will address the challenge of developing a solution to the problem of providing dermal protection against liquid chemical contamination.
We are interested in treatments, fabric design, novel constructions or any other approach that prevents the penetration of low surface tension liquids.
Do you have an innovation that fits the bill? Read the full competition document to find out more.
In short:
• DASA has launched a new Themed Competition: Innovations in dermal protection against liquid chemicals
• This competition is funded by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Home Office
• The total possible funding available for this competition is £2.6 million (excluding VAT)
• Competition closes midday on Tuesday 15th April 2025 (GMT)
Learn more and submit a proposal
LAC is looking to recruit new board members to help steer the organisation into their next phase of activity.
Going into 2025, the LAC board and team are excited to develop and deliver a refreshed cultural programme with the Caithness community. Staying true to their core values of Cooperation, Inclusivity, Transparency, Pragmatism and Innovation, LAC are keen to welcome new Trustees to collaborate with them over the next few years.
LAC are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with a strong commitment to the cultural sector and rural communities. They are seeking to appoint people with skills/experience that would include one or more of:
- Practicing Artists – professional artists working across Scotland in any art form or medium
- Buildings and Capital Projects – architect, engineer, builder or someone with experience in planning or developing capital projects
- Climate Action – a researcher, consultant, academic, activist or other worker with understanding of adaptation, sustainability and regenerative practices
- Human Resources – with a comprehensive understanding of Human Resource management, preferably in a not-for-profit environment
- Education – Somebody with experience in Primary, Secondary, Further or Higher education
- Local Folk – a dedicated and active member of the Caithness community
LAC is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, particularly applications from individuals who have been historically underserved by boards due to age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, faith or belief, or socio-economic background.
Please see the full Board Recruitment Pack here
To apply
Please send a cover letter and CV to info@lytharts.org.uk by 11.59pm on Monday 24th February 2025. If you have any questions, please email info@lytharts.org.uk
Trudy Morris, CEO, Caithness Chamber of Commerce: Find the Perfect Fit for your Firm.
As the year draws to a close, with Christmas fast approaching and the holidays in sight, it’s incredible to see the 2025 calendar already filling up fast. We’re delighted to kick off the new year with Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them—the county’s premier jobs, training, and recruitment event. Mark your calendars for Saturday, 8th February 2025, when this exciting event returns to UHI ETEC, Thurso.
People truly are a business’s greatest asset, and attracting top talent is crucial to building a resilient and dynamic workforce. This event provides a fantastic platform for employers to connect with potential candidates and highlight the breadth of opportunities available in our region. It also offers attendees valuable insights into the skills and qualifications businesses need now and in the future. Open to all, the event is ideal for school leavers, career changers, those returning to work, or anyone seeking inspiration to find their dream job.
As the hosts of DYW North Highland, Caithness Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to helping young people realise their full potential. The saying “You can’t be what you can’t see” highlights the importance of role models in expanding horizons and inspiring the next generation. Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them is the perfect platform for this, helping young people and job seekers connect with the opportunities that shape their futures.
Our region is on the brink of transformative opportunities, and we are entering an exciting new era of employment generation. Expanding the local pool of skilled workers remains a top priority for the Chamber and our partners at Focus North. One way we’re driving this forward is through the Caithness Business Fund apprenticeship grant scheme and the FutureSkills initiative – which launched in February with thanks to significant support from NRS Dounreay, the NDA, and the West of Orkney Windfarm. Since January 2024, the Fund has helped 11 local businesses create 12 new apprenticeship opportunities—an outstanding achievement that highlights the commitment of local employers to invest in their people and the region’s future.
Apprenticeships play a vital role in creating opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with lifelong skills and supporting their career growth. Every apprenticeship opportunity available in the North Highlands represents a tangible and meaningful pathway for a young person to live, learn, and work in our region and stay part of their own community.
If your business is considering hiring an apprentice or looking to grow and invest in your workforce, the Chamber is here to help. Reach out to our team to explore how we can support your goals.
We wish all our members and the wider business community a blessed Christmas and look forward to welcoming everyone to Caithness Jobs and How to Get Them in the new year!
Ryan Pollard, Managing Director, RDI Renewables
Business Insight, Ryan Pollard, Managing Director, RDI Renewables
From utilising sustainable business practices to providing local employment opportunities, RDI Renewables is spearheading the growth of the green energy sector in North Scotland.
At RDI Renewables, we genuinely believe that innovation and teamwork are essential for creating a better future for generations to come. The UK must meet European targets to reduce our carbon footprint, and as a country, we have an international obligation to lead the way. Sustainable energy solutions and renewable technologies, such as heat pumps, play a significant role in this transition, but it requires skilled workers to bring these solutions to life.
Our business began ten years ago in Thurso with just a couple of vans and a small team. However, as the industry expanded and our business grew, we faced challenges in recruiting enough staff.
To address this issue, we decided to invest in apprentices who work alongside our more experienced employees. Our first apprentice, Ryan Simpson, has been with me for ten years and has become the strongest member of my team. We now employ 13 people, with each department comprising both seasoned professionals and capable trainees at various stages of their apprenticeships.
When we take on a young person—often fresh out of school—we train and mentor them, investing four years into their development. Ultimately, this results in a highly skilled tradesperson. Our hope is that by investing in youth and attracting established tradespeople, we will not only nurture local talent but also strengthen the community and pave the way for a brighter, greener future for the North of Scotland.
Our newest apprentice, 17-year-old Alex, is in his first year at UHI and started his apprenticeship in February. He alternates between classroom instruction and practical experience. This opportunity has allowed Alex to begin a career in the renewable energy sector and secure a meaningful, well-paying job in a community he loves.
We are incredibly grateful to the Caithness Business Fund for supporting our new apprentices through the FutureSkills initiative. This Fund provides business support and financial assistance, helping to improve access to apprenticeships for small and medium enterprises, ensuring that businesses of all sizes are equipped with the necessary skills for now and the future.
Supporting an apprenticeship represents a sustained investment in the future of our region. We have built a fantastic team at RDI Renewables, and we take enormous pride in offering these opportunities in our local area.
Are you looking for opportunities to upskill your staff and make your business more effective? Or perhaps you’re considering gaining professional qualifications for yourself or embarking on a new career?
Why not join UHI North, West and Hebrides this January, where there are numerous learning opportunities tailored to suit your needs.
More Possibilities
UHI North, West and Hebrides offer flexible and inclusive learning opportunities at all levels, including part-time and online courses that fit around your work schedule. Many of their courses are accessible across ALL of their rural and island communities, and beyond. With 15 years of experience in online learning and on-campus face-to-face delivery, UHI North, West and Hebrides ensure a high-quality educational experience for all students.
More Choice
Their wide range of learning opportunities cater to diverse needs and levels, ensuring that you can find the right course for your professional or personal development. Whether you’re advancing in your career or exploring something new, their flexible programmes fit around your other commitments in life and work.
More Support
Their friendly, professional teams are committed to providing a personalised and supportive experience for every student. No matter where you choose to study—from home, your workplace, or in-person—you’ll feel like part of a close-knit college and university community.
Looking to Upskill, Reskill, or Change Careers?
A variety of part-time courses are available, designed to help you progress in your current job or transition to a new career. From Bookkeeping to Energy Modelling for Business, you’d be surprised at the diverse options available locally. Browse Part-Time Courses
Want to study something new for enjoyment?
It’s never too late to learn something new! Their range of short courses includes exciting options like learning Gaelic or getting “Gig Ready.” Explore Short Courses
Interested in Postgraduate Study?
As an academic partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands, UHI North, West and Hebrides offer a variety of postgraduate study options. Many of these programmes are available to study online, whether on a full-time or part-time basis, making it easier for you to fit postgraduate studies into your life and work. Learn More About Postgraduate Opportunities
UHI North, West and Hebrides also offers bespoke training programmes for your business through their Enterprise team business.nwh@uhi.ac.uk.
Take a look at all the options available this January and discover how UHI North, West and Hebrides can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
Explore Courses and Programmes available here
MCR Pathways is an award-winning national charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable young people, including those in care, young carers, and individuals facing instability. Through its school-based mentoring programme, the organisation pairs young people with fully-trained volunteer mentors to help them achieve equality in education, career opportunities, and life chances.
The impact of mentoring:
- 83% of mentored students progress to college, university, or employment, compared to 62% of non-mentored peers.
- 72% of mentored students stay on in school, compared to 50% of non-mentored students.
Becoming a mentor is simple and life-changing—for both the mentor and the mentee. Mentors volunteer just one hour a week, during term time, at a local school. Training and support are provided to ensure a strong and meaningful connection.
If you have empathy, an open mind, and a willingness to listen, you can make an extraordinary difference. Your guidance could transform a young person’s future, helping them unlock their full potential.
For more information, visit mcrpathways.org and start your journey to becoming a mentor today.