Report shows capacity challenges for ‘vital’ community organisations
Thousands of people across the Highlands and Islands are working with community organisations to help address inequalities and provide essential services for their local area.
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Organisations across the Outer Hebrides are invited to attend a special drop-in event on Wednesday 1 October at the Caladh Hotel in Stornoway.
The event is aimed at enabling organisations to become part of the local supply chain for major development projects being planned in Lewis.
Organised by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) with support from partners, the event is part of the Outer Hebrides: Powering Our Future initiative, which seeks to unlock economic opportunities and strengthen local participation in major infrastructure and energy developments.
The drop-in event will feature project developers who will be on-hand to discuss their supply chain requirements, timelines and opportunities for collaboration with local businesses.
Natalie Campbell, head of enterprise support at HIE in Innse Gall, said:
“This event presents a valuable opportunity for organisations to engage directly with developers and learn more about the region’s evolving energy landscape.
“By gaining insight into upcoming infrastructure projects, local organisations can gain direct insight into the projects and understand how they can position themselves to meet demand”
Organisations from all sectors of the supply chain are encouraged to attend, from catering, transport and logistics, cleaning services, to fire safety, security, and technical trades.
Whether considering setting up a business, a sole trader or a larger enterprise, the event is designed to help organisations connect with developers and explore how their services can contribute to the region’s economy.
No booking is required - simply drop in between 8:30am and 2pm to speak with representatives, ask questions, and network with other local businesses.
Thousands of people across the Highlands and Islands are working with community organisations to help address inequalities and provide essential services for their local area.
Just under half of businesses (48%) were actively pursuing growth, while 38% were satisfied with current performance and 12% were planning to downsize.
Businesses in North Uist, South Uist, Eriskay, Berneray, Benbecula, Grimsay, Arran and Colonsay have until 1 September to apply for funding aimed at supporting those affected by ferry disruption.
Investment by Highlands and Islands Enterprise in the Outer Hebrides during 2024-25 helped the agency to meet or exceed 18 of its 20 key targets.
More than £7m was invested by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) in Orkney during 2024-25.
Support provided for projects in some rural and island locations contributed significantly to overall results.
HIE and GBE will work together to identify areas of shared priorities and maximise benefits in the region
HIE figures show strong outturns against key targets during 2024/25.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) developed the units in response to local demand.
HIE’s Caithness and Sutherland office relocated from its High Street office to the UHI North West and Hebrides College campus in Thurso last year.