Carried out in February it is the 18th Business Panel Survey commissioned by HIE over the past six years.
In the context of the pandemic and Brexit it covers topics such as economic confidence, workforce, risks and opportunities, and international trade.
The findings show that economic confidence remains low, but less so than in previous surveys carried out over the past year.
It also shows that COVID-19 and the potential for future lockdown restrictions is considered the main risk facing most businesses in the next six months.
Martin Johnson, HIE’s director of strategy and regional economy, said:
“We are extremely grateful to all those who have taken part in the survey. Once again, they have provided some really valuable feedback and detailed insights into the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in the region.
“We already know that the Highlands and Islands has been disproportionately affected by the pandemic and that Brexit is also likely to have a bigger impact on the region than many other parts of the UK. The feedback received through the Business Panel surveys helps to inform decisions on how support should be tailored to best meet the region’s needs and maximise our opportunities.”
The full Business Panel survey report is available on the research and reports section of HIE’s website.
Related Articles
Island resilience fund opens
HIE will manage the fund on behalf of Scottish Government
Applications open for the 2025/26 Scottish Rural Leadership Programme
Businesses in the Highlands and Islands are invited to apply to the 2025/26 Scottish Rural Leadership Programme.
Recruitment under way for next Chair of Highlands and Islands Enterprise
The Scottish Government has begun recruitment to appoint a new Chair for the Board of development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd ’s nan Eilean a’ sireadh Cathraiche ùr
Tha Riaghaltas na h-Alba air tòiseachadh a’ trusadh gus Cathraiche ùr fhastadh chun a’ Bhùird aig a’ bhuidheann leasachaidh Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd ’s nan Eilean (HIE).
Planning application for Inverness Campus
HIE’s application is for permission to establish infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, to create serviced plots for sale to developers.
HIREP unveils ten-year strategy for regional growth
There’s a focus on renewable energy and the need to maximise economic and community benefits while driving the transition to net zero.
New tenant welcomed to Inverness Campus
The move will help facilitate the company’s further growth. Its corporate and compliance team of ten will relocate to Aurora House, with the company’s operational base remaining in Beauly.
Next phase of small business units for Wick Business Park
Project will help support economic growth and strengthen population retention in Caithness
HIE published latest business survey results
There were 1,013 responses received from enterprises across the Highlands and Islands region operating in a wide range of sectors.
HIE Board welcomes shadow member
Mary Bowman is learning what it is like to serve on the Board of a public body