The Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) estimates that 855 jobs are expected to be created or retained, as a result of the organisation’s activities during the last year.
This included an £8.5m investment by HIE subsidiary Wave Energy Scotland, which completed its first year of operation, in 35 research and development projects.
HIE also helped with CS Wind UK’s acquisition of Wind Towers Scotland in Machrihanish, which should safeguard over 130 skilled jobs and create a further 70.
HIE said turnover among supported businesses and social enterprises is anticipated to increase by £140m over three years and international sales by £90m.
The region’s social economy turnover is forecast to increase by almost £4m, of which £1.8m is by community-owned assets.
HIE chairman Lorne Crerar said: “The current challenges facing industries, businesses and commercial growth worldwide are well documented.
“The progress we have seen in the Highlands and Islands over the past year, in the context of those challenges, is testament to the superb levels of ambition, entrepreneurship and innovation that thrives in businesses, social enterprises and communities across our region.”
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