Economic Development
Are you in business in Shetland? Would you like to establish a business here? Either way, we hope that you will find this page a useful introduction to the services of the Council’s Economic Development Unit. It contains a brief outline of what we do and includes the contact details you’ll need.
Our work is based on Shetland’s current economic development strategy, Shetland 2012. The aim of the strategy is to:
‘…maintain and enhance prosperity in Shetland by enabling businesses, communities and individuals to attain their full economic potential’.
Our activities fall under three main headings.
- Our Research and Development Service undertakes a range of research work and publishes information about Shetland, for example the annual Shetland in Statistics. It also pursues the development of technology, particularly in renewable energy. Our European Bureau is part of this Service.
- Our Ventures Service undertakes investment in a variety of projects across all Shetland’s economic sectors. If you have a business idea, it’s possible that it may be eligible for support under one of our schemes of assistance. We’ll be happy to discuss your proposals and we may be able to alert you to other sources of advice.
- Our Marketing Service seeks to ensure that Shetland’s reputation is enhanced and that the community and its entrepreneurs are confident as they approach the marketplace. This entails encouraging the best possible understanding of consumer needs and ensuring that our products are as good as they can be.
The Economic Development Unit, which houses all these functions, is located in the centre of Lerwick, in the same building as the Shetland Development Trust. You can contact us by one of the following methods:
Telephone:
01595 744940
Fax:
01595 744961
development@sic.shetland.gov.uk
Post
Shetland Islands Council
Economic Development Unit
6 North Ness Business Park
Lerwick ZE1 0LZ
Shetland