Tim Winterburn

New base for Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport build on relationship with region’s university

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Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport (ICFGF) has moved to offices at the UHI House education, research and business hub in the Highland capital.

As well as providing space for planned expansion of ICFGF’s small core team, the move builds on the close working relationship between the organisation and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI). ICFGF was previously based at the Green House business centre in Inverness.

ICFGF Chief Executive, Calum MacPherson, said: “Our small team of three will increase in number over the next year as we establish the Green Freeport and UHI House is an ideal location for us.

“Not only does it provide the space and facilities we will need for more staff, but it enables us to continue to build on our well-established and close working relationship with UHI.

“The university has been a highly valued part of the ICFGF consortium from the outset and has a critical role in ensuring people across the region are equipped with the wide variety of skills and knowledge needed for the employment opportunities the Green Freeport is creating.

“We have been very well looked after at the Green House over the past 12 months and would like to extend our thanks the team there for all their help and support.”

Set on Inverness Campus behind Raigmore Hospital, off Old Perth Road in Inverness, UHI House was formerly known as the Centre for Health Science.

Alison Wilson, Director of Economic Development and Advancement at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), said: “The relocation of the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport to UHI House presents an excellent opportunity for UHI to remain closely engaged with industry and responsive to the needs of the Highlands and Islands.

“UHI House is a wonderful facility, home to a vibrant community of students, staff, NHS partners, and businesses. We’re delighted that the Green Freeport team has chosen to join us here.

“This Green Freeport initiative represents a once-in-a-generation chance to significantly impact our economy by driving demand for education, training, research, and innovation. As a key partner, UHI is committed to supporting the Green Freeport by training the future workforce, advancing research and innovation in the renewable energy sector, and collaborating with both public and private sector partners. Together, we aim to transform the prospects of our region, fostering a vibrant and sustainable economic future.”

UHI’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Vicki Nairn, is one of two new members appointed to the board of ICFGF. Also joining the body is Alex Campbell who recently succeeded Bob Buskie as Chief Executive of the Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF).

The Full Business Case for the establishment of ICFGF is currently being considered by the Scottish and UK Governments. It was submitted to Holyrood and Westminster in June, after being endorsed by The Highland Council.

Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport signs up to Buy Social Scotland Pledge

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Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport (ICFGF) has signed up to the Buy Social Scotland Pledge.

The national initiative, led by Social Enterprise Scotland and supported by the Scottish Government, aims to strengthen opportunities for social enterprises within the country’s supply chains.

ICFGF signed up to underline its commitment to working with the third sector in the Highlands and to help encourage other companies and organisations to do the same.

Calum MacPherson, Chief Executive of ICFGF, said: “We are proud to join the growing list of companies and organisations that are showing their commitment to strengthening supply chain opportunities for social enterprises by signing up to this Pledge.

“The third sector is a critical part of Scotland’s rural economy, providing a wide range of important services and products as well as creating employment opportunities. People might be surprised to know that in the Highlands and Islands alone in 2021 there were 1,277 social enterprises operating, with 7,228 full time employees and contributing £197m to the area’s economy, according to the most recent census by Scottish Government.

“ICFGF is still in the process of being fully established, but we are firmly committed to ensuring opportunities for social enterprises in our procurement and supply chain and to actively encouraging the many companies and organisations we work with to do the same.”

Launched last year, the Buy Social Scotland Pledge brings together corporate businesses, academic institutions and public sector bodies.

It has five key commitments: recognise Fair Work principles; make a commitment towards a net zero policy; promote social enterprises within the organisation’s procurement and supply chain; agree to prompt payment to its suppliers; and commit to reporting annual spend with social enterprises.

Chris Martin, CEO of Social Enterprise Scotland, said: “We are delighted to welcome Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport to the Buy Social Scotland Pledge. By prioritising social value in their operations, ICFGF is setting a powerful example of how economic development can go hand in hand with community benefit. Their involvement demonstrates a strong commitment to creating a more inclusive and sustainable economy, and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts of their collaboration with local social enterprises.