From supporting nearly 150 new businesses to securing significant investment for local projects, Argyll and Bute Council has delivered another year of strong economic results.
Now, with a refreshed Economic Strategy Action Plan for 2026-2029, the council is setting out a clear vision to build on that success and create new opportunities for businesses, communities and residents throughout the area.
A report to the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee outlines the impact of the council's Economic Growth team during 2025/26 and introduces a refreshed Economic Strategy Action Plan for 2026-2029.
During 2025/26, the council supported 147 new business start-ups, helping generate a projected turnover of £7.2 million and supporting the creation of 188 jobs. Businesses supported through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund also reported a 29% increase in turnover and a 38% increase in full-time equivalent employment after receiving support.
The council's employability programmes also delivered strong results, with 418 people receiving tailored support to help them move closer to employment. Argyll and Bute also achieved a job-start rate of 43% - significantly above the Scottish average of 32%.
External investment continued to be secured for local projects and communities, including £1.47 million through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and £470,000 through Community Led Local Development funding, supporting 20 projects across Argyll and Bute. Those projects helped to secure an additional £408,000 of match funding with every £1 invested delivering an estimated £3.76 in wider social value.
Investment was also secured to support key tourism infrastructure projects, including £900,000 for improvements at Staffa and £219,395 for the Hynish project on Tiree.
Looking ahead, the council's new Economic Strategy Action Plan will focus on building on these successes by developing a cluster-based approach to economic growth, bringing together Argyll and Bute's key strengths and growth opportunities.
The 2026-2029 strategy identifies six priority sectors for future growth:
- Renewable and green energy
- Blue economy and marine industries
- Marine research, innovation, digital technologies and AI
- Defence and engineering
- Food and drink, including whisky production
- Visitor economy and hospitality
The plan also places a strong emphasis on community wealth building and creating an inclusive wellbeing economy, ensuring that economic growth delivers benefits for local people, businesses and communities.
Argyll and Bute Council will work with businesses, community organisations, public sector partners and both the Scottish and UK Governments to help maximise the area's natural assets, marine expertise, renewable energy potential, food and drink sector and tourism offer.
Councillor Jim Lynch, the Council’s Policy Lead for Business Development, said: "The achievements of the past year demonstrate the positive impact that targeted support, investment and partnership working can have for businesses, communities and residents across Argyll and Bute.
"The new Economic Strategy Action Plan builds on that strong foundation. By focusing on our natural strengths, supporting innovation and investment, and ensuring economic benefits are retained within our communities, we can create sustainable growth and opportunities for the future."
The Economic Strategy Action Plan 2026-2029 will be delivered through the Council's Connect for Success approach, promoting collaboration, innovation, evidence-led decision making and digital technology to help strengthen the local economy and support long-term prosperity across Argyll and Bute.
