Scotland's Technology Council 2025-26 Report
6th April 2026
The establishment of Scotland's Technology Council in 2025 represents a significant step in shaping the nation's long-term economic future. Its 2025-26 report outlines an ambitious vision to position Scotland as a leading global technology hub by 2035.
At its core, the report argues that while Scotland already possesses strong foundations in research, innovation, and natural resources, it must now focus on scaling these strengths effectively to compete on the international stage.
Central to the report is the idea that technology will be a primary driver of economic transformation. The Council highlights the potential for digital and advanced technologies to improve productivity, stimulate investment, and support Scotland's transition to a net-zero economy.
In addition, technology is framed as a means to enhance public services, particularly in healthcare, where data-driven and personalised approaches could significantly improve outcomes. By focusing on sectors such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and life sciences, the report identifies areas in which Scotland could develop a distinct global advantage.
To achieve this vision, the Council sets out four key strategic priorities. The first is clean energy and infrastructure, where Scotland is seen to have a natural advantage due to its renewable energy resources. The report calls for greater investment in energy systems, including storage and grid resilience, alongside the integration of digital technologies to modernise infrastructure.
The second priority is health innovation, which builds on Scotland's strong academic and healthcare institutions. By fostering closer collaboration between the NHS, universities, and industry, the report envisions a more preventative and data-led healthcare system.
The third priority focuses on entrepreneurship and business growth. Although Scotland has a strong track record of producing startups and research breakthroughs, the report identifies a persistent challenge in scaling these ventures into globally competitive companies. Addressing this issue requires improved access to finance, stronger leadership capabilities, and better support systems for founders.
The fourth priority, advanced technologies and connectivity, emphasises the importance of investing in critical areas such as semiconductors, telecommunications, and emerging technologies like quantum computing. These sectors are seen as essential for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy.
In addition to these priorities, the report proposes a set of ambitious "moonshot" initiatives designed to accelerate progress. These include expanding access to global capital, increasing the number of high-growth scale-up companies, boosting the commercialisation of university research, and leveraging public sector procurement to support innovation. Collectively, these initiatives aim to create a more dynamic and globally connected technology ecosystem in Scotland.
However, the report does not overlook the challenges that must be addressed. It identifies several systemic barriers, including skills shortages, limited access to growth-stage funding, and a lack of experienced leadership in scaling businesses. Furthermore, the fragmentation of support systems and inefficiencies in public procurement are seen as obstacles that hinder innovation. Overcoming these challenges will require coordinated action across government, industry, and academia.
Scotland's Technology Council 2025-26 report presents a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy for national economic development. Its central argument is clear: Scotland's future success will depend not only on its ability to generate innovation, but on its capacity to scale it effectively. By addressing structural challenges and investing in key sectors, Scotland has the potential to establish itself as a leading technology nation by 2035.
Read the full report HERE