Orkney investment boosts results for HIE in 2024/25

The largest approval was £5m, awarded to support the proposed development of a new port facility at Scapa Flow for assembling offshore wind turbines. This assistance was provided from additional Scottish Government funding allocated to developing Scotland’s ports and offshore wind supply chain.

Stromness-based Green Marine UK secured up to £250,000 in HIE investment to support the purchase of advance survey equipment, enabling the company to expand its services and meet rising demand. Orkney Crab Limited was awarded up to £132,675 for new equipment to improve efficiency, production process and support local employment.

An investment of up to £164,198 helped Orkney Distilling Limited to expand its production facility and diversify its product range with the introduction of single malt whisky and rum. We also approved £124,000 towards the Garden Square Development in Bridge Street - a new entertainment complex in the heart of Kirkwall. 

In partnership with Orkney Islands Council, support was provided to food and drink, creative industries and renewable energy sectors to market their products and services outside Orkney at key trade shows. 

The Pier Arts Centre was awarded support of £50,000 over two years to employ an officer to support plans to develop the Old Post Office in Stromness and expand the services at the Birsay artists’ residence. 

Working with communities, HIE continued to support development officers across several islands, while assisting community-led projects. Among these was an award of £9,400  to Shapinsay Development Trust to install solar PV panels, battery storage, and an off-grid resilience system for its Boathouse site. This project strengthens the sustainability of the trust and supports its vital community services including the community hub, charity centre, and EV charging point.

Through HIE’s innovation services, 17 organisations were supported with the development of new products and services. Orkney businesses benefited from participating in learning journeys and accelerator programmes as well as access to expert advice, information and signposting to other sources of assistance. Innovation grants awarded included £44,267 to UHI Orkney, supporting the trialling of new technology to enhance the productivity of polytunnels.

Ruth Kirkpatrick, HIE’s area team leader in Orkney, said:

“Orkney’s businesses, social enterprises and communities continue to develop ambitious and innovative projects that we are delighted to support. Because of the strength of these projects, we have been able to deliver over and above our original targets for the year. 

"Our focus is on making the most of our strengths and opportunities, whilst addressing any challenges through collaboration and targeted intervention.”