Our network of support

The Scottish government recognises the importance of the role that life sciences sector can play in improving Scotland's economic performance in today's knowledge-based economy. Practical support is available from many sources; including Scottish Development International, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands & Islands Enterprise and the Scottish community's networking organisations.

Scottish Enterprise

is Scotland's main economic, enterprise, innovation and investment agency. It helps ambitious businesses in Scotland to grow and become more successful. It support key industry sectors and develop the business environment to enhance Scotland's economy. A variety of funding and support is available to help develop innovative business ideas. They can provide companies with guidance on the most appropriate grant and provide support for the application process.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise

(HIE) is the Scottish Government's economic and community development agency for a diverse region which covers more than half of Scotland. It helps ambitious businesses to grow and become more successful by supporting key industry sectors and developing the business environment to enhance the Highlands and Islands economy.

Scottish Development International

is a joint venture between the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Its purpose is to attract direct foreign investment, enhance the internationalisation capabilities of Scottish companies, create partnership investments between Scottish and foreign companies, increase trade growth and help strike licensing deals between Scottish and overseas companies and universities.

Scotland's specialist networking organisations work together to enhance the life sciences community, by providing a range of co-ordinated services. These include organising networking and training events, making local and global connections to help stimulate collaborations and issuing newsletters that offer a promotional platform for local companies and organisations.