A history of innovation across thriving industries
Our innovative culture across industry, academia and government will back your ambition every step of the way.
Scotland has been redefining sectors for centuries - ever since it invented the telephone. From the ATM, penicillin to the colour photograph, our track record in innovation runs deep.
Today, Scotland is among leaders in groundbreaking industries. Our innovation clusters and advanced research hubs are developing revolutionary solutions to global challenges. Some of our latest innovations include:
- Thermal imaging tech that helps robots detect humans
- Building blocks made from recycled plastic
- Molecular imaging for life-changing medical treatments
- Whisky by-product biofuel
Our reputation goes beyond our legendary inventions. The British Business Bank’s 2023 tracker ranked Edinburgh as the UK’s top innovation-led cluster for equity deals outside London; Glasgow was close in third place. Meanwhile, Aberdeen is scaling innovation in the renewables sector through its Energy Transition Zone (ETZ).
Find out more on the history of innovation in Scotland.
Transforming spinouts to high scale-ups
Do you have a business idea that is ready to take off? Scotland is the perfect launchpad. Our universities have been powering spinout and scale-up companies for years. Scotland consistently ranks among the UK’s best countries for turning research into businesses. Many equity deals involving spinouts also come from Scottish universities.
All 19 of our universities are in on the action, helping academics to bring their ideas to market with access to intellectual property, funding, and business support across all sectors.
Find out more about Scotland’s universities.
Scotland’s sectors for innovation
Global challenges need bold solutions, and Scotland is the place to develop them. Our nation has already made huge strides in key industries. And these strides are turning into leaps. Your business will benefit from Scotland’s broad profile of sectors. And this is especially true if it specialises in high growth sectors such as energy transition, digital and technology, space and fintech.
Find out more about Scottish industries - strengths and opportunities (sdi.co.uk)
Funding for Innovation
Innovation needs investment, and Scotland delivers. Through Scottish Enterprise, our national economic development agency you can access grants, investor funding, and other financial support to fuel your research and development.
Thinking about launching your next big idea?
Learn more about support and funding (scottishenterprise.com)
Scotland’s Innovation Centres and Centres of Excellence
Big ideas deserve big support. Scotland’s innovation centres and centres of excellence will help businesses like yours achieve fantastic results. No matter your industry, Scotland will give you the resources, expertise and networks to bring your innovations to life.
Ready to take the next step?
Find out why Scotland is right for your business (sdi.co.uk)