Business Gateway ensures neigh problems for Orkney equestrian centre 

About the business

Hilltoft Peedie Ponies, launched in April 2021, creates wonderful experiences for children to ride Shetland ponies whilst enjoying the spellbinding landscapes and nature of Orkney. The owner Isobel had identified that there was nowhere for small children to ride horses, and little Shetland ponies are perfect for young children who wish to learn.

How Business Gateway has helped

Owner, Isobel looked to Business Gateway for help to establish her new business and received dedicated 1:1 support with business and financial planning experts. Hilltoft Peedie Ponies also received 1:1 marketing and branding advice, which resulted in rosettes featuring the ponies’ names, being available to purchase and has proved a popular keepsake.

With Business Gateway’s support, Hilltoft Peedie Ponies were awarded a New Business Start-up Grant. This facilitated the purchase of key equipment such as colour coordinated riding hats, safety stirrups and new reins, ensuring that the children are safe and the experience playful.

Hilltoft Peedie Ponies is now looking towards extending their service and offering beach rides, where the children and ponies would be collected from the beach, offering unforgettable experiences.

Isobel Cromarty, Owner, Hilltoft Peedie Ponies, said: “Business Gateway’s support has been fantastic as we looked to get off the ground and acquire the necessary equipment to ensure the best experience possible for the children.

“The 1:1 advice has been really useful, especially the financial planning and marketing advice which gave me the confidence to take my business forward, knowing that each area was comprehensively covered. My business is now in a position where I can look to expand our services and continue to grow.”

Wendy Pickles, Business Gateway, said: “Our advisers are highly knowledgeable in all aspects of starting and running businesses and I would encourage anyone in a similar position to Isobel to come in. I am confident Hilltoft Peedie Ponies will continue on the right path as they become more established and grow.”