Advisory / Counseling Services News

Highlands and Islands supply chain spotlight at All-Energy 2025

More than 30 of the region's businesses are took centre stage at the UK's biggest renewable energy exhibition and conference at Glasgow’s SEC 14-15 May.   Global experts, academics and innovators gathered at the annual All-Energy exhibition and conference to advance Scotland’s goal of net zero and achieving a sustainable future.  

Innovative project at Moray carrot firm will lead to growth

An innovation project by a major carrot grower in Moray is forecast to strengthen the company's position and create more jobs.   Family-run firm, AA Carrots Ltd grows carrots on 400 acres of land around Moray and Aberdeenshire, of which around half is organic.  

New reports examine impact of nuclear decommissioning in Scotland

Research offers a positive outlook for communities impacted by the decommissioning process.   A new study has revealed that Scotland's £25 billion nuclear decommissioning programme could deliver significant long-term economic and social benefits at both national and local levels over the next 90 years and beyond.  

Planning application for Inverness Campus Marks Final Phase

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has submitted an application for planning permission in principle to make way for the second and final phase of development at Inverness Campus.   Most of the development in the proposals is for commercial floorspace, with other elements including hotel and academic space.  

Highlands and Islands Regional Economic Partnership unveils ten-year strategy for regional growth

The Highlands and Islands Regional Economic Partnership (HIREP)'s Regional Economic Strategy addresses the challenges affecting the region's businesses and communities.   A partnership of public, private and academic organisations in the Highlands and Islands has unveiled its ten-year strategy to deliver sustainable economic growth across the region.  

NDA group deliver defueling milestone with EDF

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group played a pivotal role in defueling Hunterston B on time and on budget.   On 24 April 2025 EDF announced Hunterston B nuclear power station has been successfully defueled on time and on budget, in less than three years, following rigorous checks by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).  

Moray agriculture firm in £400k growth project

A family run agriculture company in Moray has embarked on a major growth project that will increase production and efficiency, improve product quality and create jobs.   James Taylor & Son, operating at Kintessack near Forres, has secured up to £161,446 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards total project costs of £403,616.  

Next phase of small business units for Wick Business Park

A further phase of development is getting under way at Wick Business Park in a move that will support economic growth and strengthen population retention in Caithness.   Park owner Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has awarded a £1.8m contract to Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd to build a further four new business units.  

Highland and Islands Has Its Own Community Owned Credit Union - Saving or Borrowing Use It

Credit unions have been around a long time.   Hi-Scot credit union covers the Highland and Islands and it is easy to save or borrow at good rates.  

HIE approves further £863k for Inverness Castle project

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved a further £863,000 contribution to the Inverness Castle Experience project.   Led by The Highland Council, the Inverness Castle Experience is a key project within the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, HIE and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.