New initiatives taking advantage of Scotland’s world-class reputation as an innovation nation have been announced by the Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes.
Three projects, backed by £4.4 million, are designed to help turn ground-breaking research across the country’s universities and colleges into high-growth businesses that create jobs and support economic growth.
The package includes:
- £2.9 million for the Proof of Concept Fund which will explore the commercial potential of research projects by developing prototypes and pitching to investors, as well as analysing markets to attract further investment
- £800,000 for the Spinout Pipeline Project which, led by the University of Strathclyde, will help share commercialisation expertise across Scottish universities, culminating in a summit where innovators will pitch to potential investors
- £700,000 for the Entrepreneurial Campus Blueprint which will help college students to develop business skills and link in with investors
