The Engage Invest Exploit (EIE) event returns this week, after a two-year hiatus.
Taking place over two days, EIE24 will bring together around 100 investors from across the UK and beyond, with a strong line-up of Scottish technology companies seeking investor support and guidance.
Hosted by BBC innovation correspondent Laura Goodwin, EIE24 will take place across venues including Edinburgh Castle, Dynamic Earth and the University of Edinburgh.
Duncan Martin, lead executive for EIE24 and director of entrepreneurship at The University of Edinburgh’s Bayes Centre, commented: “Our role at EIE24 is to develop and grow an environment where authentic connections can happen between founders, investors and ecosystem builders, so everyone’s expectations are aligned and companies receive the support they require to scale.
“There is a perception among some investors of a lack of viable, growth-ready companies in Scotland to invest in.
“We need to help address this – there are many ambitious founders with innovative technologies that could be the next big thing.“
This year’s event features presentations from nearly 30 technology-driven companies spanning sectors including sustainable energy, healthtech and fintech. There will also be a series of networking sessions, panel discussions and keynote speakers.
Wellbeing Economy Secretary Màiri McAllan is set to attend a private investor evening at Edinburgh Castle.
“A thriving investment environment is key to Scotland’s future economic growth and prosperity,“ she said. “It is vital that investors and business founders have the right conditions to develop partnerships that can help us continue our renowned reputation for entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable growth.
“Since its inception, EIE has played an important role in developing these connections, and EIE24 is an important opportunity for our high-growth Scottish tech start-up ecosystem to showcase its huge potential to national and international investors.”
Mark Logan, the chief entrepreneurial advisor to the Scottish Government, added: “The return of EIE as an in person event is most welcomed and will help to establish and grow relationships.
“It’s a key time for the Scottish tech ecosystem, and I am particularly excited to be part of this year’s event.
“EIE24 has a greater focus on a smaller number of high quality companies, as well as on developing connections between founders and investors, which is vital if we want to encourage investors to return.”
Previous EIE events have supported more than 540 companies, helping them go on to raise more than £1.2bn in downstream funding.
The relaunched event is delivered in partnership with the Data Driven Initiative as part of the £1.3bn Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.
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