The private sector is driving change across north east Scotland’s established and emerging industries.
Opportunity North East (ONE) held its Transforming our Region annual event on 20 June 2022, with more than 160 senior business people, future leaders, entrepreneurs and co-funding and delivery partners at The Chester Hotel in Aberdeen.
Respected broadcaster, Kaye Adams, hosted the event and Jennifer Craw, CEO of ONE, updated the audience on impact to date.
- Projects led by ONE and its track record of delivery have increased funding and investment into the region to build momentum in economic diversification. Over £30 million of committed ONE investment has secured partnership funding of £85 million over the past six years.
- Transformational projects are enhancing the economic potential of digital tech, food and drink, life sciences and tourism. Specialist programmes are enabling entrepreneurs and founders to create and grow businesses and lead in the transition to a low-carbon economy with more than 450 businesses supported to date.
- Digital, food and drink, and life sciences businesses explained the difference ONE-led activity has made to their growth - watch their case studies below.
Dean of External Engagement at Glasgow University’s Adam Smith Business School, Professor Graeme Roy, and ONE chair, Sir Ian Wood KT GBE, discussed the current drivers of economic change.
Industry leaders Dr Deborah O’Neil OBE, Stanley Morrice MBE, Grant Smith and Claire Bruce - who chair the ONE life sciences, food, drink and agriculture, digital tech boards and VisitAberdeenshire – shared perspectives on priorities and emerging opportunities.
“The challenge now for north east Scotland is to ensure that the transition to net-zero provides high-quality opportunities for businesses, people and communities. With the continued support and investment of the private sector and partners, ONE will turn ideas and opportunities into action to deliver long-term impact and value.” Jennifer Craw, CEO, ONE
“ONE’s continued focus on diversifying the region’s economy beyond energy is bearing fruit and we are accelerating transformation that is consistent with the demands of a low-carbon economy. The progress of ONE Tech Hub, BioHub, SeedPod and North East Adventure Tourism all align with this ambition. These projects are real, they are happening, and they will make a significant contribution to the diversification and appeal of our economy.." Sir Ian Wood, Chair, ONE
Shaping future action and delivery
All attendees shared their ideas and insights to shape future action and delivery. The outputs from the roundtable discussions on the night will be collated to identify potential projects with options to test and develop them with industry.
The three key questions that businesses, partners and stakeholders are considering are:
- What new opportunities do you see for the future of your business and the region?
- What are the challenges and opportunities in your business or sector in the transition to a low-carbon economy?
- What new activities will ensure we attract, retain and develop people and skills for current and future jobs?
Add your voice to the Transforming our Region conversation here.
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