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20th International Island Games Generates £4 Million Boost to Orkney Economy
Delivering economic growth and a lasting legacy for sport, facilities, and community life.
A new evaluation of the 20th International Island Games has confirmed that Orkney 2025 delivered a £4 million economic uplift for the islands and created a powerful long‑term legacy for local sport, infrastructure, and community life.
The Games, held from 12–18 July 2025, brought 2,141 athletes and officials from 24 islands worldwide to Orkney, with 1,630 athletes competing across 12 sports. The event marked the largest influx of visitors ever recorded for a single occasion in Orkney, cementing its place in Island Games history as the smallest host island to stage the competition.
The report shows the Games contributed £4,335,696 to Orkney’s economy, driven by participant and spectator spending. A total of 2,338 unique spectators travelled to Orkney, with 48% coming from Scotland, 10% from the rest of the UK, and 42% from overseas.
Attendance across the week reached at least 63,336, with spectators visiting an average of 1.7 venues per day and staying for nearly five days each.
A £1.6 million investment in new and upgraded sports infrastructure—supported by Orkney Islands Council, SportScotland, and other partners—has left a lasting legacy for local athletes and clubs. Improvements include a new athletics track, enhanced golf facilities, and modern gymnastics equipment.
The Games were powered by 1,027 volunteers who contributed more than 21,000 hours of support, valued at around £250,000. Survey results show overwhelming satisfaction, with 99% rating their experience positively and 83% saying they would volunteer again at a local event.
Media interest was extensive, with 117 accredited journalists covering the event. In total, the Games generated 97 print articles, 224 TV items, 857 radio pieces, and 719 online stories.
Digital engagement was equally strong, with more than 580,000 livestream views, 4,000 channel subscribers, and 84,900 hours of online viewing.
Athletes delivered exceptional performances, breaking 26 Island Games records across the 12 sports. The Faroe Islands topped the medal table with 41 gold, 31 silver, and 23 bronze medals, followed by Jersey.
Gordon Deans, Chairman of Orkney 2025, said the findings validated years of planning and community effort.
“Our aim was always to ensure the Games delivered maximum impact and lasting benefits for the people and businesses of Orkney. It’s incredibly rewarding to see this report reflect what everyone felt throughout the week—that the Games were a resounding success on every level.”
Business Minister Richard Lochhead praised the event’s far‑reaching benefits.
“The £4 million boost to the economy and the investment in new equipment and facilities will benefit generations to come. This was not only about showcasing the hospitality and beauty of Scotland’s islands, but about leaving a legacy from those who made it happen.”
Orkney Islands Council Convener Graham Bevan said the Games exceeded all expectations.
“It’ll live long in our memories. The report highlights the range of positive economic and social impacts the Games brought to our islands, and we welcome the findings.”
The full Orkney 2025 Island Games Evaluation Report is available at www.orkney2025.com.
Orkney 2025 International Island Games was principally funded by Orkney Islands Council, sportscotland, and the Scottish Government.
