HIE supporting businesses towards economic recovery

31st October 2009

Business and community groups across the Highlands and Islands are making use of a number of initiatives offered by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

As part of the third update of the Scottish Government Economic Recovery Plan, HIE has this week highlighted a number of proven initiatives which are available in the area.

HIE's acting chief executive Sandy Brady said: "Business and community groups across the Highlands and Islands are finding the current economic climate challenging but many are also taking advantage of the opportunities which are arising. Through the economic recovery plan and initiatives which HIE already runs, we are helping people to identify these opportunities and make the most of them".

"Our business master class and virtual conference programme continues to be a huge success, focusing on issues identified by the business community as being of particular relevance to them. Two virtual conferences have already been held attracting a total of 332 live viewings and nearly 9000 downloads. A further conference is already being planned", he continued.

A number of other initiatives are also available, including tailored support for social enterprises through Business Gateway and HIE's contract with Highlands and Islands Social Enterprise Zone (HISEZ). This provides support for social enterprises to identify potential opportunities to provide lifeline facilities and services in rural communities which may be at risk as a result of the current economic climate.

HIE continues to be active in helping firms to access finance. Sandy Brady continues, "In the current economic climate, businesses must work harder to attract funding, whether by share investment, loans or overdrafts. Making a professional pitch to prospective funders is essential. HIE already provides support to growth businesses seeking to prepare funding proposals and this will continue."

HIE will also continue to invest in projects and sectors which have the potential to transform local and regional economies, for example renewable energy, UHI and the Kintyre Action Plan.