Enterprise agency investing more than £5.37m in far north
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The north of Scotland's economic and community development agency has highlighted how it is extending its reach across Caithness and Sutherland by investing in a range of businesses and trusts.
Newly collated figures show that Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) approved more than £5.37 million of investment in the two counties during the financial year 2022/23.
HIE says the funding will help with business diversification, economic growth, job creation and community resilience.
Projects being supported include the development of small business units at Wick Business Park following a £2.7m investment approval to fund the enabling infrastructure.
Caithness-based JGC Engineering and Technical Services is looking to supply a new market with shipping containers for the transport and storage of hazardous waste after securing up to £248,000 support for the project.
GMG Energy in Sutherland will be able to start feeding electricity into the National Grid from renewable energy sources in a £600,000 project, for which HIE approved a £200,000 contribution.
Dunnet Bay Distillers is developing a bottling plant and warehouse as part of an expansion that is expected to boost the local economy and benefit the community by providing employment. HIE approved more than £180,000 to support the project.
An award of £101,773 is enabling Wick Development Trust to employ a full-time project officer to deliver a series of projects over the next three years, including developing Wick River Campsite to five-star rating.
The trust is operating the riverside site as a community enterprise and profits will ultimately go towards local regeneration efforts.
Eleven rural jobs are being created by Ardgay Game Factory of Bonar Bridge after it secured up to £74,350 HIE support towards a £247,000 business expansion project that is also expected to boost turnover and international trade.
North Lands Creative Glass in Lybster is extending its range of products and services, while reducing its carbon emissions after acquiring a new electric furnace with a £37,500 HIE contribution.
Helmsdale and District Development Trust was able to employ a development officer with the help of an £18,204 contribution from HIE, and Sutherland charity Go Golspie received £25,800 for capital costs relating to a YMCA building renovation project.
Loch Duart Ltd in Scourie is also among the organisations benefiting. With the help of a £5000 HIE grant, the company was able to take part in a trade mission to Singapore to promote its premium range of farmed salmon to an international audience.
Eann Sinclair, HIE’s area manager for Caithness and Sutherland, said: “Over the past couple of years we’ve worked hard to build new relationships and extend our reach across Caithness and Sutherland. We’ve also been able to enhance our support for smaller enterprises, in partnership with Business Gateway and others, through more online delivery.
“We want to maintain that broader engagement and are reaching out to other businesses, social enterprises and community organisations looking to expand their activities, reach new markets and employ more people.”
