The Western Isles or Outer Hebrides

The Outer Hebrides, or Western Isles, are situated 55km off the northwest coast of Scotland and an hour’s flight from Glasgow or Edinburgh, is a world away in terms of lower business overhead costs, security considerations, and a high skills base to tap into.

The natural and environmental capital of the islands is a strong base for the significant fish and shellfish processing industries in the area, and creates unique niche opportunities when it comes to marketing the Western Isles as a tourist destination. This resource is a further tool in the area becoming a global player in renewable energy generation and technology, and the associated manufacturing and support prospects.

The Western Isles economy is estimated at £221 million or £7,827 per head in terms of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), with the main sectors being public services and administration; distribution; fishing/fish farming; agriculture; health and education.

Educational attainment rates are high, with many going on to further and higher education although reducing numbers entering the labour market directly from school. 

Community effort and voluntary activity continues to be a powerful force and is becoming increasingly important across the area economically and socially, with a strong sense of language, culture and community identity, e.g. Gaelic, genealogy.

Building on new and established partnerships HIE Innse Gall will continue to seek progress locally and focus on the realisation of opportunities for the people of the Western Isles.