Business and Trade
An entrepreneurial spirit underpins the economy of the islands, in the traditional industries of fishing and farming – and in more recent sectors like tourism, jewellery making and renewable energy.
Unemployment levels in Orkney are among the lowest in the country. As a Council we work in partnership with agencies such as Orkney Enterprise to encourage the creation of new businesses in need of a skilled, well-educated workforce.
Our support is designed to ensure that a healthy economy and sustainable communities can live in harmony with Orkney’s unique environment.
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In Depth
- Business Development
This section contains articles on business development services provided by Orkney Islands Council. - Business Directory
The Orkney Business Directory contains a comprehensive list of businesses, with information about access for people with disabilities. Use this web page to find a business within the Orkney Business Directory and it's level of access. - Business rates
Information and services related to business rates. - Chamber of Commerce
Details of Chambers of Commerce. Including Scotland, UK and local island chambers run on a voluntary basis by local business people. - Community Development
Information on community development, encouraged by Orkney Islands Council. - Economic Information
Information on the local economy, including PDF copies of the annual Economic reviews. - Solicitors
Contact details for local solicitors operating in Orkney. - Property for Sale or Lease
Details of properties for sale or lease by Orkney Islands Council. - Trading standards
Services and information on Trading standards for businesses and consumers. - Tourism development
Information about Orkney Islands Council's support of the tourism industry in the county. - Workplace Health and Safety
Information and services for health and safety in the workplace.