Our work with communities

The people of the Highlands and Islands prosper when their communities have a clear sense of identity and are empowered to take forward their own development.

This sense of identity is wider than the simple geographic boundaries of the community, encompassing both cultural expression and the natural heritage of the area.

Integration of business development within the community fosters indigenous growth and entrepreneurial activity and generates community confidence. The links below will tell you more about how we can help communities achieve these aspirations.

Scottish Community Land Network
The Scottish Community Land Network is a useful resource for anyone interested in the development of community-based land activities. Click the icon below to visit the site.

Key links

Promoting investment in community assets Community assets include land, the environment and infrastructure owned, managed or impacted on by the community. By encouraging community-based options for the use of these assets, we can increase the capacity of communities to undertake their own local development.Developing community strengths and leadership The enthusiasm and internal drive of communities are vital to the development process. We help communities to acquire leadership skills, recognise and develop their strengths and grasp economic opportunities.Enhancing the value of culture and heritage The distinctive Gaelic, Norse and Scots traditions of the area, together with the natural and man-made heritage, are treasured assets and we can further improve their attractiveness and contribution to development.Community land unit The aim of HIE's community land team is to increase the role of communities in the ownership and management of land and land assets, and the sustainable management of these resources for the benefit of the community.Community Energy Scotland Community Energy Scotland supports community groups throughout the country to develop sustainable energy projects. It has taken over the role of the former Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company, set up by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.e-Communities Project information on e-communities project and first e-Day event at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig SkyeCommunity projects - case studies These downloadable case studies demonstrate, using real-life examples, how communities in the Highlands and Islands have benefited from HIE network assistance.Who's Who in social enterprise Who's who in social enterprise, an easy-to-read guide to the sector

Establishing a carbon-neutral island - report January 2008 HIE appointed independent consultants to review the opportunities and actions needed to support an island community to become carbon-neutral. Although this work focuses on island communities, its findings could also apply to other communities.Location location location - the Highlands and Islands at the leading edge of Europe This downloadable, short Powerpoint presentation makes, in an entertaining but graphic way, an important point about the Highlands and Islands and its location at the edge of the European continent.

Who's Who in social enterprise The Big Lottery Fund Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company Bord na Gaidhlig - Gaelic development agency Comunn na Gaidhlig (CNAG) Crofting Inquiry the Committee of Inquiry on Crofting will engage proactively with crofting communities and others to identify a vision for the future of crofting and any administrative or legislative changes needed.The Crofters Commission Scottish Crofting Foundation Links to community websites in the Highlands and Islands Communities Scotland Scottish Islands Network Scottish islands - insights and resourcesRural Community Gateway