Energy
Our region is at the forefront of Europe's energy industry.
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Stretching from Ross-shire down to Strathspey and Badenoch, Inner Moray Firth is the most densely populated area of the Highlands and Islands.
The Port of Cromarty Firth, with its easy access to the North Sea, is an economic hub which provides one in six jobs in the local area. It has the supply chain, skills, and facilities to provide first-class services for cargo and cruise ships, drilling and production companies, renewable energy and decommissioning projects. A total investment of £30m (£7.7m from HIE) in late 2018 supported the expansion of the port to increase capacity and service the offshore renewables market as well as the world’s largest cruise ships, with the expected creation of around 140 jobs.
Food and drink is a major employer in the area. Some of the world’s best whiskies are made here, and local distilleries attract thousands of visitors each year.
It’s not just the whisky that brings the tourists. The area boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the country around the Beauly, Cromarty and Moray Firth coastlines, and world-famous attractions such as Loch Ness, Cairngorms National Park, and Culloden are all on its doorstep.
The area is served by excellent road, rail and ferry connections. Inverness Airport offers flights between several domestic and international hubs including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Amsterdam. In a passenger vote, the airport was voted best in Scotland in 2018.
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Vibrant communities and an amazing quality of life. See our film to hear from some of the people who live and work here. Want to join us? Click through to find out how we can help you base your business here.
Base your business hereFind out about some of the key growth sectors found in this area
The support and guidance from HIE has been instrumental to growth, allowing us not only to significantly expand our reach in international markets but to invest in building an incredibly committed and talented staff team.Stevie Christie, Director, Wilderness Scotland
Find out more about other areas in our region
Use our directory to contact staff across the region. You can filter results by location for contacts in a specific area.
Where Scotland meets Scandinavia and the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Island life in perfect balance.
History and innovation go hand in hand in the Outer Hebrides.
Live your best life in our thriving Highland capital, Inverness.