Short films about the impact of Northmavine Community Development Company (NCDC), Sandwick Social and Economic Development, Minginish Community Hall Association, Westray Development Trust and Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust’s work on local community life was showcased to the 270 delegates at the Strengthening Communities Conference Scotland ‘19 in Aviemore.
The event, organised by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), attracted community groups and organisations from Nova Scotia, Maine, Norway and across the UK to look at the key issues for communities leading the way on their own social and economic futures.
Douglas Cowan, Director of Strengthening Communities at HIE, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to look in depth at the social and economic benefits and challenges of living in a rural community. There were remarkable similarities even across international communities – with people looking at how to retain and attract young people, and how to provide infrastructure, services and opportunities for all.
“The films from communities like these are great examples of local people taking the lead in this and the vital role they can have in attracting new investment and income streams to benefit their communities.”
The theme of the conference, held on Monday and Tuesday, was ‘Ionnsachadh is fàs le chèile’, 'Learning and Growing Together'. It was supported by the Scottish Government, South of Scotland Enterprise Partnership, Scottish Enterprise, SSE and Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA).
See the films here:
NCDC https://youtu.be/IMNyrX9nGro
Sandwick https://youtu.be/o4f2LpYUskY
Minginish https://youtu.be/Shx7MCqQlD4
Kyle of Sutherland https://youtu.be/wLmYZVFZTok
Westray https://youtu.be/1kqOlvvAF4M
A new website which makes it easier for businesses to get information and support is one of the measures in a refreshed Economic Action Plan for Scotland.
Bhuannaich Marissa NicDhomhaill Sgoil an Rubha an Duais Choimhearsnachd, Dualchais is Turasachd le taic bho Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd is nan Eilean (HIE) aig Duaisean na Gàidhlig an raoir
Dr Stuart Black has been appointed area manager for HIE in Moray.
Eleven young people from the Highlands have become the first to complete a year-long business support programme designed to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Martin Johnson, HIE’s interim director of strategy and regional economy, looks at the importance of islands in the country’s economy.
Staff at Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) in Stornoway will join Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (the Comhairle) at its HQ on Sandwick Road next week.
A family run business on the isle of Bute is embarking on a £330,000 expansion project that will double its workforce and boost turnover.
Ambitious new plans to improve visitor facilities on the Isle of Gigha have secured a £135,000 investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
Fourteen delegates from organisations across Europe that are tackling socio-economic challenges will visit the Highlands this week.
A public exhibition will be held later this month to review progress on a masterplan for the area’s future.
