Innovation

Scotland’s universities are a key part of the innovation system because of the skills that their graduates bring to the economy, the quality of their research and their ability to generate new ideas, products and processes. All of which has the potential to support business growth and competitiveness.

Our colleges also have a role to play in stimulating innovation through their close links to business and industry, particularly small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), which are a big part of the economy in Scotland.

We are committed to enhancing the contribution Scotland’s universities and colleges make to the economy and society. Institutions already engage with the wider world in many different ways. Our funding and strategic initiatives help them to do this more effectively.

We are working closely with the Scotland CAN DO Innovation Forum, the Innovation Scotland Forum, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Interface and industry partners to develop Scottish innovation.