During the year, Highland CIC has continued to develop its role as an independent, private-sector-led social enterprise with an ambitious vision for the Highlands to become a leader in sustainable development – ensuring that the unprecedented scale of investment and change taking place across the region translates into lasting economic, social, environmental and cultural benefit for Highland communities. A significant focus has been the continued development of the Highland Renewables Network (HRN). We have built a strong and growing network of renewable energy developers, supply-chain businesses and strategic partners, creating a platform through which industry can engage with the wider ambitions of the Highlands. Importantly, HRN also provides commercial support for Highland CIC's wider community purpose: connecting the scale of renewable energy investment taking place in the region with a broader ambition for sustainable and inclusive development.

Early in the year, Highland CIC published its Highland Manifesto, building on several years of consultation and engagement across the region. The Manifesto set out the case for a more joined-up approach to sustainable development and asked a fundamental question: as unprecedented investment comes into the Highlands, how do we ensure that Highland communities genuinely benefit? Throughout the year we have continued to strengthen the evidence behind that proposition. This has included mapping and strategic analysis of the Highland economy and the interconnected challenges facing the region, including poverty and fuel poverty, housing, demographic change, tourism, renewable energy investment, natural capital, culture and community benefit funding. Particular work has been undertaken to understand the scale and distribution of community benefit associated with renewable energy development and the opportunities for a more strategic approach to social value. This evidence has enabled Highland CIC to contribute knowledgeably and constructively to discussions about the future of the region and to advocate for a long-term sustainable development strategy which considers economic prosperity alongside community wellbeing, natural capital and Highland culture. Convening business and community leadership Convening people around a shared ambition remains central to our role. Across the year we delivered 10 events involving Highland Ambassadors, businesses and community leaders, creating opportunities to share evidence, build relationships and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the Highlands. Through Highland Renewables Network we have also developed a programme of supply-chain and leadership events designed to connect Highland businesses with the significant investment pipeline associated with the energy transition. This work culminates in the development of our Highland Sustainable Development Summit, bringing together business, community, industry and thought leaders to consider how the Highlands can turn a period of exceptional investment and change into an enduring legacy. Collaboration and practical delivery Alongside our independent advocacy role, we have spent considerable time engaging with The Highland Council and other strategic organisations to explore how public, private and third-sector leadership can work more effectively together. A particular focus has been the opportunity to maximise and better understand social value across the Highlands, recognising that investment in infrastructure, renewable energy, tourism and other sectors has the potential to create benefits extending far beyond traditional measures of economic growth. Highland CIC has also developed and put forward a number of practical projects through which this ambition could be translated into delivery. These include proposals relating to higher-value sustainable tourism, poverty and community benefit, and opportunities for young people, alongside continued work to connect communities with the economic opportunities emerging from the renewable energy transition. Recognition and the next stage The progress made during the year has been recognised nationally, with Highland CIC shortlisted for UK Social Enterprise of the Year. This recognition reflects an important stage in the organisation's development. Over the past year we have strengthened our evidence base, built a significant private-sector network, developed national and international relationships and created practical propositions for delivery. Our ambition remains clear: to help the Highlands become a recognised leader in sustainable development and to ensure that the extraordinary investment and opportunities coming into the region translate into lasting prosperity and wellbeing for its communities.

During the year, directors received total remuneration of £70,400, comprising payments for services provided to the company. The remuneration was approved by the board and is included within “Specialist Support Services” in the statutory accounts. No other remuneration or benefits were provided to directors.

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration