Community Wealth Building in Orkney
Community Wealth Building (CWB) is a people centred‑ approach to local economic development. It focuses on growing and keeping more of our wealth in Orkney by using the economic power of the local public, private and community economies have to create fair work, stronger local supply chains and prosperous communities across every island and parish.
Why this matters for Orkney
Partners across the Orkney Community Planning Partnership have committed to deliver CWB so that our economy works for everyone: tackling poverty, boosting fair work, and supporting a just transition to net zero.
Our shared vision
The CWB Anchor Institutions are organisations rooted in Orkney by purpose, people and assets, and will together to bring positive change. Our shared vision is set out in our CWB Anchor Statement here.
What we will do (2025–2030)
We will act across the five pillars of CWB:
- Fair Employment & Just Labour Markets – improve prospects through fair pay, secure and flexible work, skills and progression.
- Spending – use public and anchor procurement to grow local supply chains and support business that support their employees.
- Financial Power – align investment, funds and finance so more money circulates locally and supports community priorities.
- Socially Just Use of Land, Sea & Property – steward assets so communities benefit from financial and social gain.
- Inclusive Ownership – support business models that keep profits and shares control of the economy in Orkney.
Community groups and businesses can sign the Orkney CWB Anchor Charter: Community rooted‑organisations can align with the Anchor Charter pledges and collaborate on delivery.
Further information
To find out more, contact: community.planning@orkney.org.uk