A historic Wick church that could have become another empty building on the edge of the town centre is being given a new future in community ownership. Wick Development Trust completed the purchase of St Fergus Church on 8 October, securing the 196-year-old building for £80,000.
Wick Harbour Authority (WHA) is to appoint a new strategy manager after securing up to £52,500 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help fund the post. The post holder will help WHA deliver its emerging harbour masterplan and outline business case, strengthen capacity and develop new business opportunities.
The official opening of the UK’s first HVDC subsea cable factory, located at the Port of Nigg in Easter Ross, has been welcomed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). The facility represents an investment of £350m.
The Highland distillery was built with the support of thousands of people who wanted to create something lasting for their community. Its entry into administration exposes the financial risks facing ambitious local ventures, even when the original idea has widespread public support.
Innovation has always been a defining characteristic of businesses and social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands. Whether developing new products, finding ways to overcome the challenges of distance and geography, improving services, or identifying new markets, organisations across the region have a long track record of adapting and evolving.
Inverness will welcome government representatives, investors, business leaders and economic development partners later this week as it hosts the Scottish Cities Alliance Autumn Investor Event. A two-day programme designed to showcase investment opportunities across Inverness, the Highlands and Scotland's city regions.
Walk through almost any British town centre and you can see the evidence of change. There are empty shops where there were once businesses.
September has become a month when Scotland's aspiring entrepreneurs are being encouraged to take a closer look at an idea that may have been sitting in the back of their minds for some time. Scottish Start-Up Month, led by Business Gateway, has returned for 2026 with a simple message: if you have an idea for a business, this could be the month to take the first step.
Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities Scotland and Ireland are developing closer links between their Gaelic-speaking communities, with housing, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, tourism and the marine economy among the areas being explored for future cooperation. The initiative was highlighted during a visit to Skye by Ireland's President Catherine Connolly, who met representatives of Highland organisations including Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Highland Council.
Businesses and social enterprises across the Highlands and Islands are being supported to explore the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence (AI) through two new support initiatives launched today by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) as part of AI Scotland. Applications are now open for the new AI Adoption Programme and AI Mentoring Support service, which are designed to help organisations understand, assess and implement AI technologies that can improve productivity, boost innovation and support growth.