The scheme will see the JV provide route option assessment and detailed design work for the 26-mile eastern section of the A96 between east of Huntly and Aberdeen.
Subject to the mandatory standstill period, work will begin on the scheme next month.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Keith Brown said: "We are fully committed to dualling the A96, some 86 miles of upgraded road between Inverness and Aberdeen, by 2030.
"The fact that four tenderers, including joint ventures, competed for this major contract is evidence of the interest in the market engendered by the infrastructure improvements this Government is delivering across the country including in the north.
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"This major design contract marks a further milestone towards the dualling of the A96 with all the investment and improvements that it will bring to local economies right across the north of Scotland.
"Road users will not only enjoy the benefits of improved journey time and reliability, better connectivity between destinations but also, crucially, improved road safety for all those who use this key artery connecting two of Scotland's economic hubs."
Mr Brown added the deal will also provide a boost to the local and national economy, with the contractor having already secured future work and providing opportunities for small and medium enterprises through subcontracted work.
"We are at the same time progressing the design work for the Inverness to Nairn (including Nairn Bypass) and also the western section of the route between Hardmuir and Fochabers, having recently let locals and road users see and comment on the options being taken forward for the western section with a view to identifying a preferred route option next year."
(LM/MH)
