HIE 2008 changes

Building sustainable economic growth in the Highlands and Islands

Highlands and Islands Enterprise is changing.

From 1 April 2008, HIE becomes a unified agency which is clearly focused on helping achieve the Scottish Government's goal of increasing sustainable economic growth.

HIE has a prime role to play in the Highlands and Islands to deliver the Scottish Government Economic Strategy.

We will do this by assisting businesses which have significant growth potential; leading ambitious strategic projects which can grow our economy; strengthening our communities, and working in partnership with private businesses and public and voluntary sector organisations to make our region more competitive.

Our Operating Plan 2008-11 describes in detail our ambitions for the Highlands and Islands, the challenges and opportunities the region is currently facing and the range of activities HIE plans to deliver.

This new focus means that HIE will no longer provide some of the services it has in the past.

Career advice and guidance, delivered through Careers Scotland, becomes the responsibility of Skills Development Scotland.

Skill Development Scotland is also the agency responsible for national training programmes for individuals, such as Skillseekers, Get Ready for Work and Modern Apprenticeships.

HIE will continue to provide support services for businesses in the Highlands and Islands during 2008. However, before the end of the year, these services will transfer to local authorities, under the Business Gateway banner.

HIE's business support will in future concentrate on working closely with a select number of businesses which have high growth potential.

Local enterprise companies no longer exist in Scotland from April 2008. Area offices throughout the Highlands and Islands will continue to ensure that HIE retains a strong local presence in every part of our region.