A pioneering new business based in Kyle of Lochalsh is bringing state-of-the-art technology to Scotland’s marine sector, thanks to crucial support from Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited.
Sgùrr Access and Marine Services Limited has received loan assistance from HOIL to help launch its ambitious new venture, offering cutting-edge Remotely Operated Vehicle inspections across the Highlands and beyond.
HOIL, the business loan arm of The Highland Council, provides tailored financial support to businesses and community groups throughout the region.
Their flexible loan schemes allow promising ventures to access the early funding they need to get established and begin trading.
For Sgùrr Access and Marine Services, this support has been transformational.
The funding enabled the purchase of advanced equipment essential for delivering Remotely Operated Vehicle, or ROV, inspections.
These sophisticated machines offer an alternative to the traditional methods of underwater inspection, which often rely on costly and sometimes risky commercial diving.
With their new ROV equipment, the team at Sgùrr Access can safely and efficiently inspect moorings, fish farms and marine infrastructure across Scotland.
This service is particularly valuable to aquaculture companies, mooring associations and local authorities who are responsible for maintaining vital assets along Scotland’s extensive coastline.
The use of ROVs allows for high-resolution, accurate data collection while dramatically reducing both costs and health and safety risks.
Councillor Paul Oldham, Chair of HOIL, praised the company for spotting a growing opportunity.
“I am very pleased to see Sgùrr Access and Marine Services Limited take this important first step,” he said.
“They have clearly identified a strong market and are bringing forward a safer, more efficient solution.
“I wish Lewis and his team every success as they grow.”
He added that the Opportunity Fund from HOIL continues to provide accessible, affordable finance for start-ups and expanding businesses across the Highlands.
The fund is just one of several tools HOIL can use to encourage business growth and economic development across the region.
Lewis MacLeod, Director of Sgùrr Access and Marine Services Limited, is full of gratitude for HOIL’s support.
“The loan from HOIL was crucial in helping me launch my ROV inspection business,” he said.
“It allowed me to invest in high-quality equipment and cover my early costs, which would have been a real challenge to fund personally.
“Thanks to their backing, I was able to get up and running quickly and start offering my services to clients across Scotland.”
As the marine sector continues to evolve, businesses like Sgùrr Access and Marine Services are leading the way with safer, smarter solutions.
Their success is a powerful reminder of how targeted support can help local entrepreneurs bring innovation and opportunity to the Highlands.
