HIE lights Summer 2014

SKYE FILM COMPANY EXPANDS

GONORTH 2014: NIGG INVESTMENT SHOWCASE SUCCESS ANNOUNCED

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lights Building our future across the Highlands and Islands

Summer 2014

Issue No. 13

The country’s most challenging rural broadband project took a major step forward in July – see p17

WELCOME / FÀILTE

IN THIS ISSUE

Welcome to HIElights, a regular update on the activities of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Investing Women launch

HIE is a non-departmental public body of the Scottish Government, with a unique remit which integrates economic and community development. Active across half of Scotland, from Shetland to Argyll and from the Hebrides to Moray, HIE pursues four priorities to achieve sustainable growth:

Carloway Estate buyout

• Supporting businesses and social enterprises to shape and realise their growth aspirations • Strengthening communities and fragile areas • Developing growth sectors, particularly distinctive regional opportunities • Creating the conditions for a competitive and low carbon region HIE has an annual budget of almost £97m and employs around 250 people based in locations around the Highlands and Islands.

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

40 Jobs for Wick All Energy - Sir Richard Branson Shetland energy scheme Marine Science Park investor Food and drink awards Gaelic benefits businesses Stay up to date with HIE’s work across the Highlands and Islands at www.hie.co.uk or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

OUR PRIORITIES

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Supporting businesses and social enterprises to shape and realise their growth aspirations A’ toirt taic do ghnìomhachasan is iomairtean sòisealta gus na h-amasan aca a dhealbhachadh agus a’ ruigsinn

INVESTING WOMEN LAUNCH Scotland’s first women-focused network to encourage more female angel investors and entrepreneurs was launched in the Highlands and Islands in June.

Investing Women will tap into an internationally growing community of women angel investors and entrepreneurs seeking growth.

Founder Jackie Waring has modelled the organisation on the successful USA angel practice in order to speed up the growth of female participation in the Scottish angel community. Although women currently hold 46% of the UK’s top wealth, only 2% of Scottish angels are women.

Jackie said, “This is a wonderful opportunity to increase the funds available for investment in Scottish innovation and we at Investing Women are tremendously excited to be running the very first Highlands Catalyst programme later in the year.”

The Catalyst programme has also been based on US models. Bringing women angels and entrepreneurs together to learn has boosted female participation in investment, both as investors and women entrepreneurs accessing equity for growth.

HIE’s Stephanie Anderson said the agency was delighted to be supporting Investing Women to roll out across the Highlands and Islands.

“There are many exciting businesses in the region led by female entrepreneurs or with women in leadership roles which could benefit from greater early stage investment, a stronger network of connections, mentoring and support,” said Stephanie. “Investing Women brings ambitious people together to share their knowledge and experience.”

HIE INVESTS IN SCOTRENEWABLES An innovative Orkney marine energy firm is starting work on its first commercial scale tidal turbine.

HIE is supporting Scotrenewables Tidal Power Ltd with £30,000 towards the £150,000 fit out and equipment costs of establishing an assembly plant at Hatston, Kirkwall.

Established in 2002, Scotrenewables has tested nine different scale models of its

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

floating, moored device over the past decade at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC). A working prototype was connected to the national grid through the EMEC in 2011 and underwent a two-year test programme.

The firm’s latest turbine will be one of the most powerful which has been developed anywhere in the world to date, generating up to 2MW at 3m/s.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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SOFTWARE BUSINESS CHOOSES INVERNESS A software business at the leading edge of the IT industry is to create a new centre of excellence in Inverness.

London-based ERPaaS Ltd is to establish an Oracle development office for its Enterprise Resource Planning service which covers financial accounting, procurement services, human resource management and payroll.

Based initially at the Green House, Beechwood Business Park, the new Inverness Development Centre should create up to 17 highly skilled IT jobs over the next three years.

The firm chose the city after discussions with HIE, which has supported the development with funding of £340,000. It is hoped to be the beginning of a cluster of technology businesses in the region.

ERPaaS is at the forefront of using cloud and Software as a Service (SaaS) technologies to offer clients solutions tailored to their sectors and businesses.

people who are eager to learn and a great university to develop them.

Rhona Fraser of HIE added, “The company is highly ambitious and is looking to create exciting opportunities for young people and graduates to join the global IT industry.”

Find out more at www.erpaas.com

Hugh Blair, Chairman of ERPaaS Ltd, said, “We are hugely excited about coming to Inverness, with a reserve of bright young

Young Films.

SKYE SET TO BECOME FILM AND TV HUB The independent company behind smash hit film and TV series The Inbetweeners, has swapped the streets of London for a full time base on the Isle of Skye.

Young Films, owned by producer Chris Young, is expanding its creative team on Skye – with HIE providing £106,000 to support five new posts.

“It has long been my ambition to integrate more fully Young Films’ activity with the Isle of Skye and its people,” said Chris Young.

“Bringing together HIE and Creative Scotland in partnership with Young Films’ existing commissions from C4, BBC and BFI, allows the company to expand significantly its workforce in Skye.

“With a long running TV show and three new feature films set in Scotland to be produced by Young Films, it is certain that Skye will become a hub for film and television production in the future.”

The firm’s latest production, Bannan, is BBC Alba’s first Gaelic drama serial and received its world premiere at the Edinburgh Film Festival on 28 June. The first three episodes will air in September, when Young Films will also start filming a further 15 on location in Skye.

Caroline Forsyth of HIE said, “Young Films’ reputation and its success in developing productions will have a significant impact on generating opportunities locally, regionally and throughout the Scottish film and television industry.

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“We are delighted that home-grown talent is being nurtured in the area – first through education and training at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and then through industry opportunities.”

Young Films’ latest movie is The Invisible Life, the first ever co-production between Scotland and Portugal. Productions in development include an adaptation of Neil Gunn’s classic Caithness novel The Silver Darlings, a new drama by John Collee (screenwriter of Master and Commander) and the latest film by Oscarwinning director Kevin Macdonald.

The Inbetweeners movie, released in 2011, is the second-highest grossing British film of all time, after The King’s Speech.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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‘OMNI-HUB’ AIMS TO IMPROVE STROKE OUTCOMES Doctors may in future be able to carry out a lifesaving diagnosis on a stroke victim hundreds of miles away, thanks to new technology being investigated by the University of Aberdeen, with support from HIE. In what could be a lifeline for people living far from a major hospital, an ultrasound scanner connected to a communication system will transmit images of the patient’s brain in real time to specialists, making medical expertise instantly available.

It is envisaged that rural ambulance crews could carry the ‘Omni-Hub’ device and remotely link to the stroke specialist’s computer using a mobile phone or satellite connection.

The specialist would then be able immediately to advise paramedics whether or not to administer ‘clot-busting’ drugs.

Omni-Hub has been developed by Tactical Wireless, and is currently being tested with healthy volunteers.

Peter Morton, the firm’s Managing Director, said, “Our testing has confirmed that excellent data and voice communications can be established and maintained between a vehicle in transit or at the incident scene in the remotest parts of the Highlands and Islands and a specialist at a hospital miles away.”

The collaborative project involves funding from HIE, the university, energy and water firm TAQA and the Satellite Applications Catapult.

Philips Healthcare and BK Medical are also assisting the team.

More than 130,000 people suffer a stroke in the UK every year, and 1.3m people are living with the effects of stroke.

Peter Morton, Managing Director, Tactical Wireless

SGEAMAICHEAN A’ TOIRT TAIC DO GHNÌOMHACHASAN GÀIDHLIGNESS Tha buidhnean air feadh na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eileanan a’ gabhail nan cothroman an lùib dà sgeama maoineachaidh a tha a’ cumail taic ri cleachdadh na Gàidhlig am measg ghnothachasan agus iomairtean sòisealta.

Tha na sgeamaichean, air am maoineachadh tro Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean (HIE) agus gan lìbhrigeadh le Comunn na Gàidhlig, stèidhte air ìomhaigh shònraichte na Gàidhlig a thaobh margaideachd agus a’ cur na Gàidhlig gu feum.

Gheibhear suas ri £3,500 tron sgeama mhargaidheachd agus suas ri £15,000 tron Sgeama Ùr-gnàthachaidh. Tha an dà sgeama fosgailte chun na Dàmhair.

Thuirt Raibeart Mac na Ceàrdaich aig Hebrides Alpha, “Tha am maoineachadh seo air cothrom a thoirt dhuinn air a’ Ghàidhlig a ghabhail a-steach mar phàirt de dhòigh smaoineachaidh na companaidh; a’ toirt fìor bhlasad nan Eilean Siar do ar companaidh agus do na tha sinn a’ reic – rud a tha a’

tarraingeach do mhuinntir an àite agus do dhaoine bhon taobh a-muigh.”

Thuirt cuideachd Niall Ross, HIE, “Tha sinn a’ coimhead air a’ Ghàidhlig mar stòras le buannachdan mòra na lùib, buannachdan eaconamach is sòisealta a tha a’ neartachadh choimhearsnachdan is na h-eaconamaidh air feadh na sgìre. Tha sinn an-dràsta a’ cur crìoch air pìos rannsachaidh air buaidh eaconamach na Gàidhlig mas tèid a sgaoileadh fad is farsaing.”

SCHEMES SUPPORT GAELIC IN BUSINESS Organisations across the Highlands and Islands are benefiting from two funding streams promoting the use of Gaelic in the development of businesses and social enterprises.

Funded by HIE and delivered through Comunn na Gàidhlig, the schemes focus on the development of new business ideas and using the unique branding potential of Gaelic in marketing.

Grants of up to £15,000 are available through the innovation fund, and up to £3,500 through the marketing scheme. Both schemes are open until October.

Robert Sinclair of social enterprise Hebrides Alpha said, “This [innovation] funding has given us a fantastic opportunity to truly integrate Gaelic into our business thinking and provide our products and organisation with an authentic flavour of the Western Isles.”

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Neil Ross of HIE added, “We see the use of Gaelic as an asset having huge potential to generate further economic and social impacts which strengthen the economy and communities across the Highlands and Islands.

“HIE’s continued investment in the use of Gaelic will be informed by our research in this area which is currently being finalised.”

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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EXPORT WORKSHOPS PROVE POPULAR International e-commerce workshops in Inverness and Orkney attracted businesses from sectors as varied as education, textiles, tourism, jewellery and renewable energy.

(L-R) Ian Philp, HIE and Bruno Berardelli, Managing Director at HWEnergy, with the liveried vans.

LOCHABER BIOMASS BUSINESS GOES NATIONAL A leading biomass heating specialist based in Lochaber is investing in a new IT system to support its growth, with assistance from HIE.

network of engineers and local fuel supply depots and serves customers across Scotland.

From Torlundy, near Fort William, Highland Wood Energy (HWEnergy) has designed and installed over 250 commercial scale wood fuel biomass heating systems, and provides service and maintenance to 300 sites.

Ian Philp of HIE said: “The company has grown considerably and the new infrastructure will support a nationwide operation. Their ability to offer a comprehensive service to clients with differing needs gives them huge potential to grow in the sector.”

HIE is investing £99,000 to support its ambitious plans, which include a robust IT platform for the company’s rapidly growing service and heat supply operation.

The company has also been able to offer a permanent post to Andrew Macdonald, who was initially appointed through HIE’s graduate placement programme.

HWEnergy has been helping customers achieve significant cost and carbon emission savings through biomass for 11 years. The company employs over 40 staff through a

HW Energy Managing Director, Bruno Berardeli, said: “The grant from HIE will help us to continue to expand operations across Scotland and the north of England.”

Developed as part of HIE’s Smart Exporter programme to help businesses looking to increase international sales through their websites, each workshop focused on a different aspect of e-commerce. Topics included developing an effective website, improving the profile of your business, language issues, pricing strategy, understanding payment methods, and considering legal requirements.

E-commerce advice is just one way HIE and Scottish Development International can assist businesses which may be planning international trade.

Figures from HIE and Scottish Development International show 159 companies in the region received our support to enter or grow in overseas markets in 2013-14.

Nine businesses were helped to bring forward 12 projects with forecast international sales of £35.7m, while 17 firms which graduated from HIE’s Export Explorer programme are projecting international sales of £13.25m.

HIE also recently hosted a two-day Preparing to Export workshop in Inverary, targeting companies which may be new to exporting, or in the early stages.

FIRMS TASTE SUCCESS AT THE SCOTTISH EDGE AWARDS Four winners from the Highlands and Islands scooped a total of £173,500 in the fourth round of the Scottish EDGE competition for innovative young companies Coast & Glen, Inverness, won £24,000 to buy new equipment to expand production capacity, invest in new software to digitise processes and improve its website.

MotoScotland, Argyll, won £50,000 to scale up through employing a new training instructor, improve its website, increase marketing and sales capacity and expand its stock of motorbikes.

Hebridean Spa, Lewis, won £50,000 to move the business into new UK spa markets, develop overseas markets, attend trade shows in the UK and abroad and move to larger premises BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

in Stornoway to scale up production.

Kirsteen Stewart, Orkney, won £50,000 to grow her fashion design business into a global brand through employing a graduate in a dedicated sales role, attending trade shows in London and Paris, working with a marketing specialist to extend the reach of the brand and increasing stock volumes to meet growing demand.

A fifth business from the region, Speyside Craft Brewery from Moray, was also named as a finalist in the national competition.

The Scottish EDGE competition is designed to expand and grow by creating more jobs in Scotland and taking advantage of opportunities to move into international markets.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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ENGINEERING FIRM PLANS UP TO 40 JOBS IN WICK HIE has provided £194,000 to assist Aberdeen-based Process Safety Solutions (PSS) to move into new premises at Wick Business Park.

Roy Kirk, HIE’s Area Manager for Caithness and Sutherland, said: “In deciding to open this new office in the county, the company is taking advantage of a skilled workforce and our excellent connectivity with Aberdeen, which can be reached in only 25 minutes via Wick John O’Groats Airport.

“HIE funding will assist the company to recruit 30 to 40 staff, many of whom currently commute to Aberdeen, into highly paid, skilled jobs which will support the Caithness economy.”

Finance Secretary John Swinney officially opened the new offices, where a team of

five has already moved in, during a Scottish Cabinet visit to Caithness in July.

“PSS has an impressive track record of annual growth since it was founded in 2010 and this expansion in Wick demonstrates the company’s commitment to develop an exceptional skills base in the North East and reinvest locally,” said Mr Swinney.

“Commitments like this clearly demonstrate that Scotland is investing in our engineering sector to not only benefit our economy and home grown talent but to secure our place as skilled operators in global industries.”

PSS founder David Green said, “More and more companies in Aberdeen are out sourcing engineering work, but until now this has been largely to India and England. We would like to reverse this trend and fully realise the potential within Scotland’s engineering community.

PREMIUM QUALITY RESORT UNDER WAY Construction has begun on a multi-million pound spa and leisure complex at Loch Fyne.

Due to open next summer, the addition to Portavadie Marina will create 17 full time jobs and secure a further 10, making a significant contribution to the local economy.

The £10m project is proceeding ahead of schedule thanks to funding of £950,000 from HIE. Portavadie’s general manager Iain Jurgensen said the development will create one of the top visitor destinations in the country.

“This state of the art new spa and leisure centre will be a major addition to our facilities and one we hope will prove very popular - not just with our existing customers including, of course, the local community, but also with the many thousands of potential new customers in Scotland and beyond,” he said.

Portavadie offers world class yacht berthing facilities alongside contemporary and diverse holiday accommodation, high quality dining, beauty and wellbeing, weddings and events spaces and exclusive shopping, against the backdrop of one of the UK’s most spectacular locations.

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“We have had great support and have worked closely with HIE as we saw potential in utilising the wide skills base in the area. Access to the local skill base developed over the last 50 years at Dounreay was one of the main drivers to the new office location.

“The location will also enable us to diversify into the renewables market for wave, tidal and wind energy.

“The development of the Smith Bank and Beatrice offshore renewable wind energy sites presents opportunities for investment to support this emerging industry. A new PSS office in the North of Scotland will be well placed to provide engineering services and long term maintenance and support for all renewables projects in the North.”

Portavadie Marina - Spa and Leisure Centre

The new building will feature indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa facilties, gym, studio, café, and multi-purpose function spaces with marina views, and will use local biomass energy as its primary power source.

David Smart of HIE said, “Portavadie continues to be truly transformational for this part of Argyll.”

Portavadie will remain open for business throughout the construction period.

More information: www.portavadiemarina.com

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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OUR PRIORITIES Strengthening communities and fragile areas A’ neartachadh choimhearsnachdan agus sgìrean dùbhlanach

CARLOWAY COMMUNITY SUPPORTED TO BUY ESTATE An estate on the Isle of Lewis is coming into community ownership thanks to grants from HIE and the Scottish Land Fund (SLF).

Carloway Estate has a population of 648 and covers 11,000 acres, taking in over 200 crofts across seven townships including Callanish, Breasclete, Tolsta Chaolais, as well as a number of outlying islands.

SLF has awarded £207,500 and HIE £38,964 to the Carloway Estate Trust. HIE’s funding will enable the Trust to employ a development officer. The buyout has also received £30,000 from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

Ingrid Galbraith of HIE said, “Communities who buy their estates, like North Harris, West

Harris and Galson, have enjoyed a new-found drive for regeneration and development.

HIE has been working with the Carloway community for two years, supporting them with the future management of the land, and helping them take forward their ambitious development plans.

“The acquisition of the Carloway Estate will allow the community to start many ambitious projects, such as the development of tourism, housing and renewable energy to create a forward looking, empowered and resilient community.

Scottish Land Fund Committee Chair, John Watt, said, “The Carloway Estate possesses a range of assets and has the advantage of

being a popular visitor destination thanks to the Callanish Stones and Dun Carloway Broch, so there is great potential for tourism related development.”

Kenny John MacLennan, Chair of the Carloway Estate Trust, said: “The grants will be put to good use, primarily to pay for the estate, but also for legal costs and the employment of a development officer for a two year period to help promote estate development plans. This is great news for the Trust that started the buyout process less than two years ago.”

The Scottish Land Fund is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by the Big Lottery Fund and HIE.

A shinty match in progress at the Scourie Sports Pavilion

OPENING OF COMMUNITY-OWNED SPORTS PAVILION CELEBRATED WITH SHINTY SIXES TOURNAMENT A Sutherland community has celebrated the opening of its new sports pavilion with a shinty match and ceilidh.

Scourie Community Development Company (SCDC) led development of the £300,000 project, and marked its completion by hosting

the annual Far North Shinty Sixes competition on 7 June.

SCDC is also being supported by HIE to deliver a community-led development plan.

The pavilion will support a broad range of outdoor activities was funded by HIE, Highland LEADER and The Highland Council, with private finance raised by the community.

Charles Findlay from HIE, said: “The project is an investment which is a tangible asset for the local community and which should benefit the wider local economy.”

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www.hie.co.uk

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GLENCOE WALKING ROUTE NEARS COMPLETION (L-R) Eleanor McNab, HIE, and Kirsten Laurie, SID.

ISLAY COMMUNITY RE-OPENS FILLING STATION An island community has taken control of its local filling station with support from HIE and the Scottish Land Fund.

South Islay Development (SID) took over the two-pump Port Ellen Filling Station on Friday 2 May, six months after it had closed.

As a result, the area’s 1,000 residents will no longer need to visit Bowmore, 10 miles from Port Ellen, if they require fuel.

The Scottish Land Fund awarded £50,000 towards the project while HIE contributed £17,500. Just Enterprise also helped SID create a business plan.

Port Ellen hosts one of Islay’s two ferry ports which welcome thousands of visitors to the island each year. Visitors are drawn by South Islay’s three distilleries, RSPB reserve, historical sites and expansive beaches.

Eleanor MacNab of HIE worked closely with SID. She said, “The filling station is a crucial resource and its loss even for a short time is keenly felt locally. The community group has worked extremely hard to put together a business plan and attract funding for the project. Now they are in control of an asset which should not only prove sustainable but also in time help support additional projects in the area.”

SID Chair Jackie Thomson said, “There is a growing sense of optimism here in south Islay.

SID is taking all the necessary steps to get the petrol pumps flowing again and develop the business and the site. We cannot thank enough all the individuals and organisations who have helped us get to this point.”

Opportunities have already been identified to expand the business, focusing on the growing marine tourism market.

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The latest section of a spectacular walking route which will allow locals and visitors to circle the village of Glencoe has been officially opened.

Part of the Glencoe Orbital Recreational Track has been funded by HIE and developed by the Glencoe and Glen Etive Community Company, with the support of local landowners. Local construction and engineering firms carried out the work.

Community Company Chairman Dave Smith said, “We are delighted to see this penultimate section of the Orbital route completed. The path we have opened this week will provide great traffic-free walking to and from the village for local people and tourists alike alongside the Glencoe Old Road.”

Along with long-term support and funding from HIE, other funders including the EU Leader Plus programme, Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage and the National Trust for Scotland.

Scott Dingwall of HIE said the agency was delighted to have supported the creation of a marvellous community asset. www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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FUNDING BOOST FOR COMMUNITY BROADBAND The Scottish Government has increased funding for the Community Broadband Scotland (CBS) programme from £5m to £7.5m CBS is administered by HIE as a national programme to support digital connectivity across Scotland’s most hard-to-reach rural communities.

The funding uplift will extend the programme to at least March 2018 and was announced

by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on a Scottish Cabinet visit to Caithness in July.

Paul Wheelhouse, Environment Minister, addresses the Community Land Scotland conference.

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson welcomed

the additional funding as excellent news for rural communities.

“HIE’s delivery of the CBS project across the whole of Scotland complements our work in delivering the £146m project to roll out Next Generation Broadband across the Highlands and Islands,” said Mr Paterson. “These two initiatives will be transformational to Scotland’s social and economic future.”

CBS is a partnership between the Scottish Government, HIE, Scottish Enterprise, COSLA and local government. It is currently engaging with 75 active community groups across Scotland.

SCOTTISH LAND FUND EXTENDED TO 2020 The Scottish Land Fund, administered by HIE and the Big Lottery with Scottish Government funding, has been extended until at least 2020.

Minister for the Environment and Climate Change Paul Wheelhouse announced the extension in June at a conference held by Community Land Scotland (CLS) on Skye.

The difference community ownership is making to remote and fragile areas was also highlighted in a new economic indicators survey from CLS. In 12 estates surveyed, estate turnover had multiplied by a factor of 2.5 under community ownership, creating 80 new jobs, releasing 141 plots of land and upgrading 151 houses.

The success of community ownership was also reflected in the final report of the Land Reform Review Group which was published in May. This comprehensive report acknowledged HIE’s leading role in community empowerment and made recommendations around a wider and more equitable distribution of land, giving communities and individuals greater access.

HIE’s Community Assets Team is making good progress towards the target of one million acres in community ownership. Currently, 100,000 acres are set for acquisition in 2014/15.

The Team recently received its 100th Scottish Land Fund referral, demonstrating the enthusiasm for ownership that exists in communities across Scotland.

L to R: David Priest HIE, Angus Grains, Director North Fish Shetland, Rachel Hunter, HIE.

SHETLAND ENERGY SCHEME BENEFITS COMMUNITIES An innovative wood pellet plant in Shetland is now supplying energy to the Lerwick District Heating Scheme which serves houses and businesses across the islands’ capital.

The wood burning, drying and pelleting plant at Gremista, near Lerwick, has been developed by local business North Fish.

HIE provided just over £39,000 for feasibility studies and £40,000 to help the business buy a wood pelleting machine.

In addition, the plant itself is due to go greener later this year when it becomes powered by a new 500kw wind turbine project supported by a £700,000 loan through the Renewable Energy

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Investment Fund (REIF). Clean energy from the turbine will also serve the district heating scheme, which currently uses more expensive oil as a backup source to ensure continuity of service, particularly during winter.

Angus Grains from North Fish said, “The turbine will provide all our manufacturing power requirements and is designed to be able to export any surplus energy into the local grid or provide hot water for export into the Lerwick district heating network.

“Our customers are currently benefitting from the lowest heating cost available, and have also minimised their carbon emissions.”

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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OBAN VISITOR ATTRACTION SET FOR GROWTH A highly-rated Oban museum is set to expand with HIE’s assistance.

Historic Dunollie House opened its doors in spring 2012 and has become a popular visitor attraction. Recently awarded a four-star rating

by VisitScotland, it expects to welcome 14,500 visitors in 2014.

Delivering cultural, educational and creative projects, Dunollie currently comprises six exhibition spaces, two green spaces, a café

and a draper’s shop. HIE is contributing £30,000 towards an £80,000 project, led by account-managed social enterprise Dunollie Projects Ltd, to create more covered outdoor space, develop new exhibition displays and expand the accessible areas of the site. Two full-time jobs are expected to result.

Culture is a key driver for tourism in Argyll and the Islands and Dunollie has high potential to grow and add further to the area’s attractiveness.

A graduate appointed last year through HIE’s ScotGrad placement programme is now permanently employed as Dunollie’s Business Development Manager.

A new ScotGrad post has been established to work on product development and sales, building on the success of the shop and the development of Dalriada Tartan products for sale.

NEW DISTILLERY WILL BOOST ISLAND ECONOMY Scotland’s most northerly distillery has been set up on the fragile Shetland island of Unst.

HIE awarded almost £17,000 to Shetland Distillery Company, which is starting with gin production from premises at the former RAF Saxa Vord airbase.

Successful entrepreneur Stuart Nickerson is behind the new venture, and intends to

produce whisky from the island in future.

“Our plans are to include at least some botanicals from Shetland, and preferably from Unst, in the first few batches,” said Mr Nickerson.

“Eventually, we hope to source all the botanicals from Shetland. With the use of polytunnels you can grow most things.”

HIE Area Manager Rachel Hunter said, “This is an exciting new development for Unst, which is already home to the successful Valhalla Brewery.

“As well as being a boost for the food and drink sector, we expect the presence of both firms to have a positive impact on island tourism.”

FORMER SCHOOL TO SUSTAIN COMMUNITY A community group on Skye is buying the former Borrodale School in Glendale, thanks to a grant from the Scottish Land Fund, administered by the Big Lottery Fund and HIE. Glendale Trust will use a grant of £190,000 to acquire and develop the building and land for community use.

SCALLOWAY MUSEUM PROVES POPULAR A Shetland community group is expanding one of the islands’ top tourism attractions, with assistance from HIE.

Scalloway Museum

an ever-growing number of visitors, particularly cruise ship passengers.

Scalloway Museum tells the dramatic story of the Shetland Bus – clandestine operations to and from occupied Norway during World War Two.

HIE and the EU Leader programme are each contributing £45,600 towards a £101,366 project to create a new outdoor display area for nautical artefacts and improve energy efficiency with a heat recovery system.

Run by volunteers from the Shetland Bus Friendship Society, the museum is attracting

Opened in 2012, the museeum stands beside historic Scalloway Castle.

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Proposals include renovating the threebedroom schoolhouse and making it available to rent; converting the school into a 16-bed bunkhouse, and constructing a community hub and children’s play area in the grounds.

The hub will include a bar and restaurant, heritage and exhibition area, community launderette, bike shed and meeting space.

Elgar Finlay, is Glendale Trust’s local development officer, a post supported by HIE. He said, “The Borrodale School venture is just one which has been identified in the community growth plan for the area. The real test will be to ensure that this asset delivers as much as possible for the community and area while supporting the other key projects.”

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

OUR PRIORITIES

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Developing growth sectors, particularly distinctive regional opportunities A’ leasachadh roinnean fàis, gu h-àraidh cothroman sònraichte na sgìre

XPO NORTH WILL CARRY ON SHOWCASE SUCCESS Going strong since 2001, first in Aberdeen, then Inverness, goNorth has evolved into Scotland’s leading creative industries showcase.

HIE has supported the event from the beginning, playing a major role in driving its growth into a ‘must attend’ conference for hundreds of artists, musicians, writers, film makers, fashion designers, games developers and other creative people from across the region.

The internationally-acclaimed event is free of charge, making it accessible to emerging, independent artists, keen to hear – and meet – successful talent and leading industry professionals for advice, expertise and networking.

This year’s goNORTH, held in June, was the biggest and most successful to date, attracting over 1,300 delegates from across the UK and 12 other countries – nearly double the total who attended two years ago.

Almost 70 rising bands played, and 112 speakers addressed delegates and led workshops, including Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop and many internationally successful artists, performers, executives and producers.

Over 70 short films were screened over the two-day event, and two fashion shows were held.

From next year, goNORTH is taking on a new identity, as XPONorth, a name chosen to reflect the broader range of industries which now participate and to highlight the business opportunities and conference/workshop aspects which are central to the success of the event.

Delivery of the showcase will also continue to be an important role for the Highlands and Islands Trade Networks, which are backed

by HIE as part of its strategy to develop the region’s creative industries.

- screen and broadcast; music; writing and publishing, and fashion, crafts and textiles – being joined by design, and digital/technology.

All the networks will continue to be funded by HIE and the European Regional Development Fund.

In a detailed evaluation carried out last year, the trade networks were commended for involving industry in deciding what kinds of support were required and how it should be delivered, providing advice and support to creative businesses, encouraging networks and collaboration, and creating new business opportunities, not least through goNORTH. In the period 2010-13, the networks provided support to more than 1,000 businesses, and generated 140 net additional jobs and £3.5m of net GVA. www.gonorthfestival.co.uk

The present roster of trade networks is currently being expanded with the present four

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www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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BUILDING OUR OFFSHORE WIND SUPPLY CHAIN Following the announcements of the consents for Moray Firth and Beatrice offshore wind farms, HIE joined forces with Scottish Enterprise to run a series of supply chain engagement events in Aberdeen, Inverness and Wick.

Nearly 300 delegates attended the events, which focused on opportunities from the Moray Firth (MORL) project.

Delegates heard presentations from EDP Renewables and potential suppliers for the project, followed by one-to-one meetings and informal networking.

Kateryna McKinnon, who leads the offshore wind developer engagement work at HIE said feedback from businesses which took part had been very encouraging.

“It was terrific to see so many businesses at the events, including companies new to offshore wind,” she said.

“Well over 100 one-to-one meetings were held between EDP, their potential ‘tier one’ contractors and wider supply chain companies.

We also received 90 enquiries from companies looking for a variety of support.”

STRONG HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS PRESENCE AT ALL ENERGY Companies from across the Highlands and Islands were well represented at the 14th All Energy exhibition and conference, again creating the largest regional presence at the annual event, which was held in Aberdeen.

All Energy is a key opportunity for firms operating in the renewable energy sector and many of the regional businesses which exhibited reported a high level of interest from existing and potential clients.

HIE Director of Energy and Low Carbon Calum Davidson said, “We saw a real shift this year, with many supply chain companies at the event to discuss current opportunities.

“There was a buzz around the conference as a result of the consents awarded for both the Moray Firth and Beatrice offshore wind farms.

There will be a wide range of opportunities as a result of these projects and businesses in the Highlands and Islands are well placed to be part of these exciting developments.”

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson added, “HIE is at the forefront of promoting the development of the renewable energy sector and supporting businesses which are active in it. It was great to see so many people at the HI-energy and Energy of Orkney Pavilions, clearly doing business.”

Gavin MacKay, HIE

FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED Forty-one food and drink businesses have made it to the finals of the Highlands and Islands Food & Drink Awards.

Shortlisted businesses for the 12 awards come from all corners of the region. The judging panel was chaired by Stephen Rankin, director of UK Sales at distiller Gordon and MacPhail, and included Head Chef Charlie Lockley of the Michelin-starred Boath House, near Nairn, and representatives from HIE and industry body Scotland Food & Drink.

The annual awards complement the work of the Highlands and Islands Food and Drink Forum and are supported by HIE to celebrate excellence and achievement in the industry.

Categories include Best Drink, Export, Independent Retailer, New Product, Restaurant of the Year, Ambassador of the Year and a special Judges’ Award will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony, hosted

by Fred MacAulay at the Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness on Friday, 24 October. www.hifoodanddrink.co.uk

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www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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AQUACULTURE BENEFITS SCOTLAND – REPORT The Scottish aquaculture industry provides considerable benefits for fragile economic areas, according to a new report.

were Scottish aquaculture’s trump card, and that significant improvements had been made to the environmental impact of the industry.

Scotland. 2013 was another record year with exports of fresh Scottish salmon worth £454 million up 31 per cent in real terms.”

Commissioned by Marine Scotland and HIE, the report by Imani and SRSL, estimates that direct aquaculture production contributed at least £550m to the Scottish economy and supported 2,800 jobs in 2012.

The reports main findings were presented in May at the Ministerial Group for Sustainable Aquaculture (MGSA) comprising industry and other stakeholders.

Charlotte Wright, HIE Director of Business and Sector Development, added, “HIE has supported the aquaculture industry since its inception.

“The aquaculture industry provides much needed jobs and security in many remote areas of Scotland,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Paul Wheelhouse.

“We welcome this report which highlights that the economic benefits, which are set to grow, not only impact on some of the most remote areas of Scotland, but are felt across the country.”

“This report highlights how important this is for rural communities but also shows how the benefits from the industry are felt right across

See the report at www.hie.co.uk/aqua

Including added income across the country, the industry is estimated to turn over £1.4 billion and support 8,000 jobs in Scotland, a figure which would rise to 10,000 if 2020 production targets are met.

The report found that quality and high value

Calum Davidson, HIE, during the live web chat with Sir Richard Branson at All Energy.

BRANSON CALLS ON SCOTS TO LEAD ON RENEWABLE ENERGY Global business leader Sir Richard Branson was a guest speaker at this year’s All Energy conference, in a session chaired by HIE Director of Energy and Low Carbon, Calum Davidson.

Speaking in a live link from his Caribbean home, the Virgin Group founder confirmed that he was once a climate change sceptic but had been persuaded to think again by former US Vice President Al Gore.

“I think the opportunities for entrepreneurs in renewable energy are massive,” Sir Richard told delegates at the event in Aberdeen. “We need more entrepreneurs in Scotland to get out and bring the dreams to reality.

Asked if he thought his island, Necker, could lead as a sustainable location, Sir Richard confirmed his determination that it would, not least because everything, including power, has to be imported. He added that islands are more likely to suffer from climate change, making it even more vital for them to tap into their natural energy resources.

industries’ should go into finding new [clean] energy.

Sir Richard was also asked about the role of the aviation industry, including his company Virgin Airlines.

Calum Davidson concluded by inviting the entrepreneur to an event about sustainable islands when he attends the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Sir Richard replied with a double thumbs up.

“What we’ve got to try to do is to make flying clean… pushing towards making planes out of carbon fibre, for instance,” he said, adding that it was important that profits from ‘dirty

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

Sir Richard made it clear that it was vital to persuade governments across the world of the importance of the renewable energy sector, for tackling climate change and also creating jobs.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

Page 14

ORKNEY ENERGY IN THE INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT The first EU Ocean Energy Day was hosted in June by the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in partnership with trade association Ocean Energy Europe.

Part of the EU’s Sustainable Energy Week, the event drew representatives from the European Commission (EC), and international technology companies. They visited sites around Orkney, including HIE’s new industrial units at Warness, to share understanding of how the industry has developed and what is required to take it further.

Andreea Strachinescu, the EC’s Head of New Energy Technologies said, “The development and innovation which has taken place over the past decade in the Orkney Islands is very encouraging for the future of this sector.”

Sian George, CEO of Ocean Energy Europe, also praised EMEC’s role in developing a world leading marine energy sector in Scotland. “As a focal point for ocean energy technology demonstration, the centre is the perfect place to showcase the pioneering devices undergoing sea trials in Orkney right now.”

A high proportion of the wave and tidal technologies deployed across Europe are at EMEC’s test sites in Orkney, generating supply chain clusters and research collaboration, as well as having a considerable impact on the local economy.

Energy Days take place throughout Europe to engage the public and raise awareness about sustainable energy.

CONFERENCE GENERATES POSITIVE ENQUIRIES HIE attended the UK’s premier aquaculture exhibition and conference for the first time this year – with encouraging results.

Aquaculture UK, held in Aviemore, attracted over 1,000 visitors from 27 countries, keen to do business with 100 exhibitors representing

manufacturers and suppliers from all over the world.

David Smart and Georgina Evans represented HIE, meeting potential inward investors, account managed businesses and academics working in both onshore and offshore activities.

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Opportunities which are now being followed up by HIE include potential research collaborations and inward investment opportunities, as well as prospects for established companies looking to expand in the sector.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

OUR PRIORITIES

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Creating the conditions for a competitive and low carbon region A’ cruthachadh àrainneachd airson sgìre le comas farpais is nas lugha de charbon

Nigg Yard

HIE INVESTS IN NIGG QUAYSIDE DEVELOPMENT A £6.5m investment by HIE towards the development of new quayside at Nigg Energy Park in Easter Ross has been announced during a visit to the major manufacturing facility by the First Minister.

Mr Salmond also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigg’s owners, Global Energy Group, and Moray Offshore Renewables Ltd (MORL), the developers behind the recently consented Moray Firth Offshore Wind Farm.

HIE’s funding will enable Global Energy to take forward a £40.5m project generating, almost 1,250 jobs at Nigg. The development will create over 1,100 metres of quayside with deepwater access for the offshore oil and gas sector. It will also support the demand for large laydown areas and fabrication facilities for the renewables industry.

The First Minister said, “Offshore renewables represent a huge opportunity for Scotland to reap economic benefits and become a powerhouse of green energy.

“Following the successful re-development of Nigg Yard by Global Energy Nigg Ltd, the company has identified significant growth opportunities both from hosting foreign direct investment as a tenant, and from fabrication and other service opportunities.

“I believe Global Energy will become the first of many Scottish supply chain companies to benefit from the recently consented 1116MW Moray Offshore Wind Development.

HIE Area Manager Martin Johnson said: “The quayside development at Nigg Energy Park is another key step in creating a multi-purpose facility which is attracting developers in

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

renewable energy and oil and gas from across the world.

“HIE’s investment, including today’s £6.5m, has supported the company to create crucial deepwater and laydown facilities at the Easter Ross yard, opening up massive growth opportunities, resulting in significant job creation and increased turnover. The announcement of an MoU between Global Energy Group and the developers of one of the world’s largest planned offshore wind farms is testament to this.”

Roy MacGregor, Chairman of Global Energy Group, said: “This could be the beginning of another exciting period for Nigg Energy Park.

In the future, we see our business for oil and gas and renewables continuing to grow side by side, in this world class port, yard and construction facility.” www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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INVERNESS PUPILS WIN BIG GREEN CHALLENGE 2014 Four pupils from Charleston Academy, Inverness, talked their way to the top prize in a schools debating competition focused on renewable energy.

The victorious team of Morvern Carmichael, Cameron Cochrane, Stuart Hamilton and Jemimah Morris triumphed over schools across the Highlands and Islands at the Scottish Parliament to win HIE’s Big Green Challenge 2014.

Some of the winning team, Charleston Academy, with HIE board member Iseabail MacTaggart

A team from Portree High School also made it to the final debate and the special prize for the

team with the best grasp of technology was won by Nairn Academy.

The Big Green Challenge is an initiative developed by HIE to encourage school pupils to research the renewable energy sector and learn about the different ways power can be generated. This year’s event was sponsored

by SSE Renewables and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Europe.

The winning team will take a trip to see renewable energy in action.

Dr Douglas McKenzie, Xanthella and Lachie Beaton, HIE, at the European Marine Science Park, Argyll

FIRST TENANT FOR MARINE SCIENCE PARK A fast growing Argyll biotech business has become the first tenant of HIE’s European Marine Science Park at Dunstaffnage, near Oban.

Xanthella Ltd is the latest start-up by Dr Douglas McKenzie, a well known marine science entrepreneur who was behind the UK’s first specialist marine biotech company, Integrin Advanced Biosystems Ltd, in 1999.

of high value products such as cosmetics, medicines and health supplements.

“Malin House is an excellent base from which we can grow Xanthella,” said Dr McKenzie.

“The building’s light and airy atmosphere makes it a great place to work and the low carbon footprint really fits our company’s ethos.

Taking a lease of almost 1,500 sq ft of office and lab accommodation, Xanthella has secured a first-class facility in which to develop the business.

“We are looking forward to welcoming guests, collaborators and customers to our new facility and to closer working with scientists at the [neighbouring] Scottish Association of Marine Science.”

Xanthella develops photobioreactors for use in growing algae for research and production

Douglas Cowan, HIE Area Manager, said: “As a local high-growth company, Xanthella is

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

joining a thriving entrepreneurial community of marine scientists in Argyll. The company’s move into Malin House confirms our efforts to grow life sciences and support the unique marine science cluster of activity in our region.”

HIE developed the park as a prime location for new and expanding companies and inward investors in marine science. Dunstaffnage is already an internationally recognised centre of research excellence through the Scottish Association of Marine Science (SAMS), an academic partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands. www.hie.co.uk/europeanmarinesciencepark

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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(L-R) BT Director Brendan Dick, Neil Watt, Atkins, and Stuart Robertson, HIE.

SUBSEA LINK HERALDS ISLANDS’ DIGITAL FUTURE The UK’s most challenging rural broadband project took a major step forward in July when engineers started work on the country’s longest publicly-funded subsea fibre connection.

Connecting the Outer Hebrides with the mainland, the subsea link forms a vital part of a £146m public investment which will enable more than 200,000 homes and businesses to benefit from next generation broadband by the end of 2016.

HIE is leading the project, along with the Scottish Government, Broadband Delivery UK and private sector partner BT. Community representatives joined project partners as the cable was brought ashore from specialist ship the Rene Descartes, operated by Orange Marine. The vessel then set course for Ullapool on the mainland, laying cable along the seabed.

Stuart Robertson, HIE’s Director of Digital for Highlands and Islands, commented: “This

step is a vital part in the rollout of a network which will change the face of broadband services in the Highlands and Islands. Without public sector support, fibre based broadband would have reached around 21% of premises in the Highlands and Islands, centred mostly in higher population areas.

“Our project aims to boost coverage dramatically and is reaching out to areas like the Outer Hebrides where there were no commercial plans. It is a hugely challenging and ambitious project and we will continue to work to bring the social and economic benefits of faster, reliable broadband to as many people as possible.”

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “It’s fantastic news that this network is being developed to bring the benefits of high quality digital connectivity to our island communities, many for the first time.

“This is an important step towards ensuring that Scotland has world-class digital connectivity

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

by 2020. Our investment, and that of our partners in the project, will extend access to superfast broadband across Scotland. This will be a key factor in ensuring Scotland’s long-term economic prosperity.”

Over the coming months BT enginerrs will be active across the region as they develop the fibre network, upgrade local exchanges and create local networks to bring services to homes and businesses.

Brendan Dick, Director, BT Scotland, said: “This 79km cable may be the longest one we are laying but it’s just one part of the huge engineering jigsaw that we have to complete before we can go live with fibre in the isles.”

The next stage for the Outer Hebrides includes provision of fibre cabinets to connect homes and businesses to fibre broadband.

This will be in a phased approach during 2015 completing by the end of 2016.

www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

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ENGAGEMENT Working with government and parliament Ag obair leis an riaghaltas agus a’ Phàrlamaid

CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE DISCUSS REGIONAL ECONOMY WITH MSPS Priorities and activities outlined in HIE’s latest three-year Operating Plan were the focus of a well-attended briefing session with many of the region’s MSPs in Edinburgh in May.

HIE GIVES EVIDENCE TO ECONOMY, ENERGY AND TOURISM COMMITTEE HIE provided written and oral evidence to assist the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee in scrutinising the Scottish Government’s draft budget 201415.

Chief Executive Alex Paterson and Director of Finance and Corporate Services Forbes Duthie addressed the committee and answered their questions in the Scottish Parliament building at Holyrood, Edinburgh, on Wednesday 28 May.

HIE Chairman, Professor Lorne Crerar, and Chief Executive Alex Paterson outlined the development agency’s plans to use its annual budget, which now stands at around £97m, and attract additional funding to deliver the Government Economic Strategy across the Highlands and Islands.

wide ranging engagement programme to help the region’s businesses seize emerging opportunities in the digital economy, and running the £7.5m Community Broadband Scotland initiative, targeting the hardest-toreach communities across the whole country.

Entitled Building our Future, the new plan covers HIE’s ambitions to achieve sustainable economic growth from 2014-17, and will be refreshed annually.

Other topics raised by the cross-party group of parliamentarians included the importance of transport connections, including trunk roads and national and international air links; the potential of the University of the Highlands and Islands to become a major engine of economic growth; ongoing HIE investment in communities, and the continuing need to attract high quality inward investment to the region.

MSPs were particularly interested in progress being made to achieve HIE’s ambition to provide next generation broadband (NGB) to 84% of premises across the region by the end of 2016 – and identify solutions and funding to extend coverage to 100% by 2020.

Several speakers highlighted the importance of HIE’s contribution to collaborative projects, in partnership with other private and public organisations, to tackle broader issues affecting the region’s economic future, including housing and population growth.

As well as leading the UK’s most challenging NGB infrastructure project – a £146m investment with BT – HIE is delivering a

Building our Future is available on the HIE website at www.hie.co.uk/operatingplan

GAMES EVENT HIGHLIGHTS MARINE ENERGY

HIE’s evidence was presented jointly with Scottish Enterprise. Relevant papers and video from the meeting can be obtained by going to the Scottish Parliament website and following links to Parliamentary Business>Committees.

Scotland House, a hub to celebrate the country’s sporting success during the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, was home to a number of business events, including a day focusing on the renewable energy sector.

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson hosted the marine energy event where the keynote speaker was Fergus Ewing MSP, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism.

The Committee has now set out its provisional timetable for scrutiny of the Scottish Government’s draft budget for 2015-16, when it intends to focus on the ‘increase exports’ indicator in the National Performance Framework.

HIE has again been invited to participate in this scrutiny, and will be submitting written evidence in early September. Oral evidence sessions are scheduled for October/ November.

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

Fergus Ewing MSP

Delegates also heard presentations from Steve Chisholm of the Global Energy Group, Neil Kermode of the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), Barry Carruthers of ScottishPower Renewables, and Dan Pearson of MeyGen. www.hie.co.uk

Summer 2014

KEY FACTS

Population of the Highlands and Islands is 466,112 (2011). This represents an increase of 7.5% since 2001 and compares to a 4.6% increase overall in Scotland.

Tha àireamh-sluaigh na Gàidhealtachd is na h-Eileanan aig 466,112 (2011) – àrdachadh air 7.5% bho 2001 an taca ri 4.6% àrdachadh gu h-iomlainn ann an Alba.

Employment rate in the Highlands and Islands at 75.7%, is significantly higher than the rate for Scotland at 71.0% (2013).

Tha an ìre-cosnaidh anns a’ Ghàidhealtachd agus na h-Eileanan (75.7%) nas àirde na ann an Alba (71.0%) (2013).

Self-employment rate in the Highlands and Islands is 11.8%, which compares to 7.6% in Scotland (2013).

Tha an ìre fèin-fhastaichte anns a’ Ghàidhealtachd is na h-Eileanan aig 11.8%, an taca ri 7.6% ann an Alba (2013).

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Things you may not know about the Highlands and Islands Rudan inntinneach mun Ghàidhealtachd ‘s nan Eilean

The Highlands and Islands area covers over 50% (39,900 sq km) of Scotland’s land mass, despite having only 9% of Scotland’s population. Population density is 12 people per sq km, compared to 127 people per sq km in the rest of Scotland.

Tha an roinn a’ còmhdachadh còrr air 50% (39,900sq cm) de meallfearainn na h-Alba, a dh’ aindeoin 9% de sluaigh na h-Alba. Tha dlùths àireamh an t-sluaigh 12 duine gach cilemeatair ceàrnagach an taca ri 127 duines gach cileameatair ceàrnagach ann an àiteanan eile air feadh Alba.

Claimant count unemployment in the Highlands and Islands over the past few years has been consistently below the Scottish and UK rates. (July 2014: Highlands and Islands 1.5%, Scotland 2.8%, UK 2.4%.).

Tha cìon-cosnaidh cunntais neach-tagraidh air a bhith tòrr nas lugha na ìre Alba agus RA air na cuid bliadhnaichean a dh’fhalbh. (An t-Iuchar 2014: A’ Ghàidhealtachd is na h- Eileanan 1.5%, Alba 2.8%, RA 2.4%.)

The female dominated sectors of education, human health and social work are the largest employment sectors, employing nearly 30% of the workforce in the region.

‘S iad na roinnean-obrach fo bhuaidh boireannaich (foghlam, slàinte daonna agus obair shòisealta) na h-earrannan fastaidh as motha, a’ fastadh 30% de luchd-obrach san roinn.

The business start-up rate is higher in our region compared to Scotland with 2.7 new start-ups per 1,000 of the population compared to 2.2 per 1,000 in Scotland (2013).

Tha an ìre aig a bheil daoine a’ tòiseachadh gnìomhachasan nas àirde nar roinn an taca ri Alba, le 2.7 daoine ùr gach 1,000 den sluaigh againn, an taca ri 2.2 gach 1,000 ann an Alba ann an 2013.

Gross annual pay for all employee jobs in the Highlands and Islands of £19,340 is around 10% lower than the equivalent for Scotland (2013).

Bha am pàigheadh bliadhnail de £19,340 airson a h-uile luchd-obrach sa Ghàidhealtachd is na h-Eileanan, timcheall air 10% nas lugha Alba gu lèir (2013).

• (This information provides the latest available data from the most reliable sources.)

BUILDING OUR FUTURE | A’ TOGAIL ÀM RI TEACHD DHUINN

www.hie.co.uk

lights www.hie.co.uk info@hient.co.uk Published by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, All images are copyright Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

All written material Crown Copyright.

Ambitious for Scotland Àrd-amasach airson Alba