Supporting crofting women’s innovation in Scotland: Phase 1 of the Wild Streams programme
Wild Streams in Argyll
The Wild Streams network gathered in Argyll from 24-27 March 2026 for the final in-person sessions of Phase 1, combining croft visits, peer learning and a Living Lab workshop.
The Wild Streams programme has delivered business skills, coaching, and support for a network of women crofters in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, helping participants to grow their innovative rural enterprises.
In Argyll, the group visited two of the network members’ crofts. At Jen Hart’s off-grid croft on Loch Goil, participants tried skincare products and soaps made from natural ingredients. Jen shared prototypes of her new products for feedback and discussed future hopes for the site, including a wild cabin.
Hannah Mellet, a newer member of the network, also gave a tour of her farm, seeking input from the group on her planned farm shop and café. A focus group in the afternoon provided Hannah with feedback and advice, helping refine her branding, product range and next steps.
Helen Meek, Wild Streams programme co-organiser from the Scottish Crofting Federation, said:
“There was a lot of supportive and varied feedback for the two women whose crofts we visited. Jenny and Hannah had the time to explain their business ideas ‘in situ’, which helped the other participants to give more targeted feedback - as happened with Aoife in February. It also gave the other women the opportunity to ask questions in relation to their own businesses”
The Living Lab session focussed on participant updates, celebrating progress and talking through challenges. The innovation training this time explored participants’ personal motivations for their crofting work, through Simon Sinek’s ‘why’ activity. The group also trialled Action Learning Sets as a coaching method.
Melanie Thompson-Glen, Wild Streams programme lead from NICRE, added “the Living Lab sessions enable the group to build confidence and skills, which they take back to their own businesses and wider communities. The programme gives members the practical tools and support to enable them to explore new revenue streams and innovate on their crofts. Over Phase 1, we have seen new members join the network and we hope to reach even more women in future.”
Phase 1 successfully delivered personal and professional development through peer learning, croft visits and training. Participants have embedded their practical innovation skills into their daily lives. They have also supported each other’s development, as well as innovation in their communities by sharing learnings in their personal networks.
Feedback from participants emphasised the value of having a trusted peer network to go to for advice. Participants also reported improvements in confidence, skills and access to resources over the course of the programme. Looking ahead, the organisers aim to build on this momentum through a second phase, with continued focus on supporting innovation and business skills, as well as personal and professional growth.
Read the report and watch the video to find out more.
