HIE upbeat as it gives details of local investments
HIGHLANDS and Islands Enterprise (HIE) says it invested more than £1.7 million in 34 local projects during 2025/26, supporting 19 jobs across Shetland.
The development agency released some key activity figures from the last financial year ahead of the publication of its annual report.
In total there were 168 ‘interventions’, HIE said, mainly in supporting new products and services with a focus on environmental benefits and the transition to a low-carbon economy.
In addition to the £1.7 million invested the agency said it also helped attract public investment worth £1.175 million for preparatory works at Lerwick Port Authority’s Dales Voe facility.
Other notable investments were:
- £104,000 to Ocean Kinetics to develop a digital system and a lower-emission prototype work boat;
- £13,162 towards a project by QA Fish in Scalloway to install equipment and help meet growing market demand;
- More than £176,000 for Lerwick-based GTS Central to undertake energy efficient upgrades including solar PV combined with battery storage;
- £49,594 to help AJ Pottinger create a new heat pump storage and demonstration facility in Lerwick;
- £35,000 awarded to Shetland Arts Development Agency for a major refurbishment to improve accessibility and energy efficiency for Bonhoga Gallery; and
- £54,036 to support Stakkadale Ltd in Bigton refurbish and modernise of a building that was empty for ten years, roastery equipment and a space for workshops.
HIE area manager for the Shetland and Orkney Katrina Wiseman said the additional funding for local businesses were set to make a “real difference”.
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