What this means in Orkney
We will support business models that keep profits, decision‑making and benefits in Orkney, including co‑ops, social enterprises, employee ownership, community businesses and public/community joint ventures. This complements privately‑owned firms and can help succession planning when owners retire.
Our starting point
- Strong local examples: Orkney Auction Mart (farmer‑owned), Orkney Cheese Company, Papay Community Co‑operative, Westray Development Trust, the Pier Arts Centre’s wider community contribution, and the Council’s Community Wind Farm.
- HIE and VAO already advise on models and support social enterprise development.
Priorities for 2025–2030
- Create a single online hub outlining ownership options, toolkits and advisory routes.
- Promote succession planning (including employee/community buy‑outs) across sectors, including agriculture in partnership with NFU.
- Build management and governance capacity among employees and community groups to run different ownership models.
Case studies
- Westray Development Trust: Community‑owned energy funds housing, business loans and fuel grants—demonstrating how profits can be recycled locally.
- Papay Community Co‑operative: A community business providing essential local services that would otherwise be unavailable.
How you can get involved
- Community groups & social entrepreneurs: Work with VAO and partners to develop viable community businesses.
- Employees: Explore co‑operative or employee ownership options if you want to keep the business local.