Food features strongly in HIE’s £219m investment plan

The latest operating plan from HIE details key 'transformational projects' which the development agency will be backing across the region between now and March 2011.

HIE agrees its operating plan on an annual basis with the Scottish Government to set out the specific actions it will take to deliver the Government's Economic Strategy.

From Shetland to Argyll and from the Hebrides to Moray, HIE will focus its activities on three principal areas: supporting high growth businesses and sectors; creating the infrastructure and conditions to improve regional competitiveness, and strengthening communities, especially in fragile areas. HIE expects to establish close working relationships with around 400-500 businesses, operating an 'account management' model. HIE will target its business support towards six key sectors including food and drink.

HIE chair William Roe said supporting business growth remains a top priority: “The focus will be to concentrate on supporting businesses that can demonstrate real growth potential and are important for growing the national, international and regional economy."