Fifteen projects designed to boost economic growth and create jobs will receive a share of funding worth £5.3 million, Alex Neil announced today.

The projects across the region will focus on supporting people who are finding it hardest to get jobs, those most effected by the current economic challenges and those at risk of redundancy.

Welcoming the funding, Mr Neil, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment, said: "As always, we are focusing on supporting jobs and boosting the economy. This money will make a real difference across the Highlands and Islands - getting people back into work and helping revitalise local communities.

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"This round of funding is testament to the high standard of projects and programmes in the Highlands and Islands dedicated to driving economic growth. The diversity of the projects receiving grant reflects the variety of innovative and creative industries synonymous with the Highlands and Islands.

"In the face of increasingly tough competition to attract European funding, this represents a welcome addition, providing stability for some programmes and a new footing for others.

"Each project in its own way will contribute to developing a skilled workforce adding economic value and much needed jobs in the Highlands & Islands, as well as contributing to the Scottish economy as a whole."

(GK)