Highlands & Islands Enterprise is the Government's strategic development agency for the northern and western parts of Scotland. Based in Inverness, it delivers economic and community development services through a network of ten Local Enterprise Companies.

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland has around 19,000 businesses, more than 435,000 individuals with skills and potential of their own - and more than 8,000 voluntary and community groups. The task of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) network is to unlock that potential and help create a strong, diverse and sustainable economy. HIE's activities include: provision of business support services, provision of training and learning programmes, assistance for community and cultural projects and measures for environmental renewal.

Tourism in the Highlands & Islands
Developing the quality tourism experience in the Highlands and Islands is recognised by Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) as key to realising the full economic and social potential of the area. Developing tourism in the Highlands and Islands is pursued by HIE through three strategic objectives: 

• Growing Businesses
• Developing Skills
• Strengthening Communities

These objectives are pursued against a background of a rich natural environment and strong distinctive cultures, which are key tourist attractions of the Highlands and Islands. Business development activities include financial assistance and advice, training and marketing. Community development activities, primarily benefiting local residents but also contributing to the tourism product, include support for cultural projects, events and festivals, and improvements to community infrastructure such as village halls. 

The principles of partnership working and inclusion is intrinsic in HIE's operating activities, and close liaison is maintained with the business sector, VisitScotland, and Local Authorities, all working towards a more vibrant and competitive tourism industry.

Contact Details
Highlands & Islands Enterprise
Cowan House
Inverness Retail & Business Park
Inverness
IV2 7GF
Tel: 01463 234171

Related Site
Highlands & Islands Enterprise network website
Visit the website of the Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) network to find out more about the organisation, its purpose, priorities and programmes. Access information on the range of advice and support available through HIE's various programmes - aimed at improving the competitiveness of businesses. 

If you want to learn new skills or train your staff, would like to contribute to the development of your local community, or if you need in-depth economic information, then this site will lead you in the right direction.

www.hie.co.uk/
(Please note this is a link to an external site)