Business Comment Magazine

As autumn settles over Edinburgh, our city’s business community is moving with energy and purpose, and this edition captures that momentum. From the launch of the Rising Stars Development Programme, to an update on Edinburgh’s supercomputing capabilities, this issue highlights the people, partnerships, and ideas driving innovation and economic growth across the region. Whether it’s SMEs embracing net zero strategies, universities leading innovation, or businesses redefining community impact, the stories here reflect a city focused on sustainable, inclusive growth. We shine a light on the voices shaping our future, from creative entrepreneurs and tech pioneers to civic leaders and educators. Their experiences show that progress isn’t just about growth, but about purpose, resilience, and collaboration.

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We’re pleased to share the refreshed edition of Business Comment – a publication that highlights the ambition, ideas, and achievements of our members, and the role they play in shaping Edinburgh’s future.

In this issue, we explore the forces driving the city forward – from the economic impact of Scotland’s bus services and the strength of our tech ecosystem to cutting-edge university spin-outs. We also look at Edinburgh’s growing global presence, from cultural leadership through the Edinburgh International Festival to our joint policy work with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

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This issue highlights key infrastructure projects that are shaping our city’s future. Forth Ports is developing a green energy hub in Leith, strengthening Scotland’s supply chain and advancing renewable opportunities. Edinburgh Airport is expanding global connectivity, unlocking new trade and business potential. Scottish Water is addressing climate challenges with its Climate Change Adaptation Plan, ensuring a resilient future.

We also explore the transformation of Granton Waterfront into Edinburgh’s first net-zero coastal community and Heriot-Watt University’s work supporting sustainability in Scotland’s distilling and brewing industries. Read the latest edition now.

In this issue, we explore the critical topic of the future workforce—a challenge that touches every business and educational institution. Ensuring access to skilled and adaptable talent is essential for achieving the thriving economy we all aspire to. Edinburgh’s reputation as home to one of the UK’s most educated workforces has been central to its sustained success, and this edition highlights the efforts shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

We delve into transformative initiatives, such as the University of Edinburgh’s Data Driven Innovation projects at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, which are equipping leaders to make informed decisions. Edinburgh College’s collaboration with NHS Lothian showcases innovation in healthcare training, while Heriot-Watt University shares its pivotal role in Scotland’s growing space sector, poised to create thousands of high-value jobs.

Frances Hegyi, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh International Festival, discusses how the city’s iconic festivals are cultivating creative talent pipelines. Alongside these features, the magazine celebrates the inspiring and innovative contributions of our members and partners.

As the year closes, Edinburgh’s business community remains vibrant and resilient. Enjoy this edition, rich with ideas and inspiration.

In this issue of Business Comment, we focus on Sustainability and Innovation, featuring groundbreaking work from our partners and members. Highlights include the Edinburgh International Conference Centre’s inaugural Impact Report, detailing impressive reductions in carbon emissions, electricity usage, and waste.

Edinburgh College and Edinburgh Napier University showcase their efforts to support businesses through innovation and sustainability initiatives. Scottish Water and Edinburgh International Airport also contribute with updates on sustainability achievements.

Additionally, RoslinCT and Edinburgh Leisure share their pioneering work in healthcare and addressing social inequalities. Enjoy reading!

In the latest issue of our magazine, The City of Edinburgh Council leader Cammy Day offers an optimistic perspective, outlining positive progress in the city from new developments to our skilled workforce and a record breaking year for Real Wage sign ups.

We also hear from new Forth Ports Limited CEO, Stuart Wallace, on their plans to work towards net zero emissions by 2032 and how the ports play a crucial role in Scotland’s Green Economy. However, the city still faces challenges, including homelessness, which Cyrenians Chief Executive Ewan Aitken addresses, emphasising the human and economic costs of the issue.

A range of partners and members also showcase their work across the city, from data centres to ESG. Enjoy reading!

This issue focuses on international business and the importance of exploring new markets in a competitive global landscape.

We feature Heehaw, our 2024 International Business of the Year, who discuss their global growth and new international clients. Francesca Hegyi of Edinburgh International Festival discusses the Festival’s role in fostering international links for the city. VisitScotland highlights sustainable tourism and international collaboration, while City of Edinburgh Council looks at the impact that the Taylor Swift Era’s Tour has had in Edinburgh. We also address the rising cost of recruiting skilled foreign workers and the transition to net zero.

In the latest Business Comment issue, we explore the pivotal role of technology and data in driving Edinburgh’s economic growth. Professor Kim Graham sheds light on the city’s ambitious Data Driven Innovation program, set to elevate Edinburgh as Europe’s data capital.

Learn about groundbreaking initiatives like The National Robotarium at Heriot Watt’s campus, driving advancements in AI and Robotics for sectors like healthcare. Discover insights on cybersecurity, investment opportunities with Archangels, and IBM’s take on Generative AI. Plus, explore efforts to bridge the gender gap in tech and data skills.

We hope you enjoy the magazine.

The latest edition of Business Comment focuses on the trends and challenges in the talent and skills landscape. Industry leaders share insights, including the launch of Skills Development Scotland’s employer hub for upskilling, the positive impact of the Living Wage campaign on city employees, and Phoenix Group’s initiative empowering staff to shape their career paths. The magazine covers a Talent and Skills conference at Edinburgh College aimed at collaborative solutions, updates on the Chamber’s Net Zero journey, and thought-provoking perspectives on hybrid working from Ann Frances Cooney, a partner at DWF.