Our region

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland

Find out about living and working in the Highlands and Islands

Our region

The Highlands and Islands region represents about half of Scotland’s land mass, from Shetland to Argyll, and the Outer Hebrides to Moray and the Highlands at the centre. Each area has its unique character and traditions, and the region has a collective identity fuelled by ambition and innovation which drive growth and prosperity.

This is a land renowned for its natural beauty, distinct culture, heritage and tradition, and provides the ideal work/life balance for those who choose to call it home.

It's also a land of incredible opportunity with an estimated investment pipeline of over £100bn over the next 15 years. This once-in-a-generation anticipated investment is set to drive economic change on a massive scale building strong, resourceful communities, create the conditions for successful businesses and increase the population of our region. 

If you're looking for the ideal lifestyle, the job you've always dreamed of, or the perfect business opportunity, your search is over. 

With our unique natural resources, stunning landscape, entrepreneurial mindset and spectacular quality of life, the Highlands and Islands of Scotland offers career and lifestyle options that are definitely 'north of ordinary'.

Our areas in the Highlands and Islands

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland is a region of extraordinary natural beauty - but it’s also a dynamic and ambitious place to live, work, invest, and do business. While known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture, the region is also home to thriving communities, innovative enterprises, and emerging opportunities across key sectors.

Our area teams work closely with local partners, communities, businesses and social enterprises supporting growth and investment opportunities throughout the region. 

With significant public and private investment expected over the next 15 years, the region is undergoing transformational growth opening new opportunities for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Discover the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and find out more about our local support.

Explore our growth sectors

From energy to engineering, these growing sectors all have the potential to bring significant economic and social benefits to our region.

Creative industries

Creative industries are diverse and fast-growing, making an important contribution to our region.

Energy

Our region is at the forefront of Europe's energy industry.

Food and drink

Developing a diverse range of traditional and emerging markets.

Life sciences

Supporting the growth of the Life Sciences sector in our region.

Space

The Highlands and Islands is fast becoming a hub of space sector activity in Scotland and looks set to continue to play a vital role in the years to come.

Tourism

The tourism industry makes a vital contribution to the economy and communities of our region.

Make your move

Find out more about living, working and investing in the Highlands of Scotland.

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Invest here

The next five years are set to present several once-in-a-generation opportunities for the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. These are prospects of a scale and the potential to transform our region offering enviable business and investment opportunities. Learn more about our investment opportunities and find out how we can help you make the move.

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Work here

Businesses across the Highlands and Islands are calling out for new talent, including those in cutting edge, pioneering sectors like life sciences, renewable energy and space, as well as the more traditional sectors including food and drink, tourism and creative industries. Whatever your aspirations, find your career here.

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Live here

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland is frequently voted as one of the happiest places to live and people living here enjoy a fantastic work/life balance. We’ve plenty of room, why don’t you join us?

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Visit here

A warm welcome always awaits you in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. There's so much to see and do, those who visit often come back time and again. We’re a friendly bunch, come and say hello with a visit to our spectacular lands - it could be the first step you make in a life-long relationship.

How We Work

Regional investment opportunities

A once-in-a-generation £100bn investment is set to transform the Highlands and Islands over the next 15 years, ranging from renewable energy and space to biotech and infrastructure. Discover what this means for the region’s future and explore investment opportunities. 

Regional investment opportunities

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