Innovation Academy Programme
Last Updated: 31 Oct 2025
Contents
Support provided by
Scottish Enterprise
What does this involve?
This programme helps businesses in Scotland find ways to incorporate innovation within their business strategy to achieve faster growth.
The programme consists of 4 in-person workshops held between January and March 2026. During these sessions, you'll work with Scottish Enterprise specialists and use interactive tools to develop an innovation roadmap to help improve your business processes.
At the first session, you'll meet fellow participants, get an overview of the programme, and learn about key innovation principles to prepare for the subsequent sessions.
During the second and third sessions, you'll explore innovation tools and strategies in greater depth, and at the final session, you'll present your innovation strategy.
You can also get one-to-one support from the specialists at any time during this period.
Am I eligible?
This programme is open to small and medium-sized businesses in Scotland with 10 or more full time employees.
Your business must be based in the area served by Scottish Enterprise. This includes Aberdeen City and Shire, the east of Scotland, Tayside and the west of Scotland.
Your business should also:
- have a turnover of at least £1 million
- be looking to create an innovation strategy
- be looking to raise investment
- have ambition to change and grow
Up to 2 people can attend from each company. These participants should be responsible for sustainability in your business – ideally senior leaders, key decision makers or those who can influence change in the business.
What does this cost?
The programme is free to attend. You may have to cover travel costs associated with attending the sessions. Lunch is provided.
Who is this for?
Small to medium-sized businesses based in the area served by Scottish Enterprise, including Aberdeen City and Shire, the east of Scotland, Tayside and the west of Scotland.
How long does this take?
The programme consists of 4 in-person workshops held between January and March 2026. You can also get one-to-one support from the Scottish Enterprise specialists at any time during this period.
One attendee from each company must attend all sessions. If that's not possible, you can be added to the waitlist for a future programme.
The dates and locations for the workshops are:
- introductory workshop – Thursday 22 January 2026 at Atrium Court, Glasgow
- second workshop, followed by networking dinner and drinks – Thursday 5 February 2026 at Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow
- third workshop – Thursday 19 February 2026 at The Social Hub, Glasgow
- strategy presentation – Thursday 26 March 2026 at Atrium Court, Glasgow
Important information
Expressions of interest will be reviewed and assessed weekly and will be accepted until the programmes are full.
Next steps
Visit the Scottish Enterprise website to submit an expression of interest form.
Support provided by
Scottish Enterprise