Businesses looking to establish longer-term partnerships with academics can apply for a share of £200,000 funding, as a new round of Advanced Innovation Voucher funding is launched today (Wednesday, 30th July).
The funding is provided by Scottish Enterprise and managed by Interface to support and encourage collaborative projects to create new products, processes and services.
The Advanced Innovation Vouchers are aimed at building relationships between business and academia, and are open to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in Scotland. The funds are awarded on a sliding scale with the business match-funding the award up to £20k.
Since 2011, the Advanced Innovation Voucher programme has awarded £1.94m for 159 business-academic projects.
Paul Cross, Innovation Team Leader at Scottish Enterprise, said: “The Advanced Innovation Voucher funding helps unlock deeper collaboration between ambitious businesses and academia, converting cutting-edge research into globally competitive products and services. These businesses have the potential to scale, attract investment, create high quality jobs across Scotland, and lead their industries in the future. Our funding and support is part of our long-term strategy and missions approach to scale innovation in growth sectors where Scotland excels.”
Laura Goodfellow, Associate Director, Innovation Engagement, at Interface, said: “This funding provides a fantastic opportunity for businesses aiming to scale innovative projects – whether building on a successful partnership or launching a new venture. Interface is here to help businesses connect with the academic expertise that can drive their ideas forward and support them with funding to achieve their research and development ambitions.”
East Kilbride-based business Airglove Medical Ltd, accessed the Advanced Innovation Voucher funding after Interface brokered a partnership with Edinburgh Napier University to further develop their medical products. The potential for Airglove Medical’s innovative patient wellbeing products is also recognised by Scottish Enterprise through its equity investment into the company.
Sheena Jack, Marketing and Design Director at Airglove Medical Ltd, said: “We were delighted to work with Edinburgh Napier University and access funding for the project through the Advanced Innovation Voucher. Their knowledge and expertise, along with their enthusiasm for Airglove, has enabled us to develop prototypes and given us a strong industry/academic relationship. We are looking forward to working with Professor Chan See and his team on the next phase of Airglove.”
Professor Chan Hwang See, from the School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at Edinburgh Napier University, added: “The Standard and Advanced Innovation Voucher scheme enabled us to bring together a multidisciplinary research team with expertise in product design, electronics, electrical engineering, and biomedical devices. The project has engaged several students, enhancing their experience and skills of working with industry. In addition, the knowledge gained through this project will support future funding applications, inform several final-year and MSc student projects, and contribute to teaching materials—helping to equip the next generation of engineers with industry-relevant expertise.”
The deadlines for applications for Advanced Innovation Vouchers are: 30th September; 31st October; and 28th November, 2025.
Further information on application criteria can be found here.
Students from two Scottish colleges have been the first to benefit from an innovation accelerator programme, tailored specifically for the Further Education college sector.
Boutique Innovation designed and delivered the programme, supporting students to turn their ideas into businesses delivering products and services.
Interface added support by co-ordinating mentors with input from Converge Challenge, and connected the students to additional support, funding opportunities, and partners across the innovation ecosystem.
The students from Edinburgh College and Ayrshire College completed a seven-week pilot which combined hands-on workshops with 1-to-1 mentoring. Participants gained confidence, developed stronger business ideas, and began thinking more strategically about their customers and markets. Feedback highlighted the value of having a peer cohort, mentoring, and the depth of insight gained through the process.
Elaine Baxter, Director of Boutique Innovation, said: “I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done with Scottish FE colleges in partnership with Amelia Whitelaw and Louise Arnold at Interface on the first ScotCol accelerator programme. We have been amazed at the dedication and passion which has shone through from these early-stage entrepreneurs, and I have no doubt that we’ll be seeing and hearing a lot more from them as their business ideas flourish and grow.”
Amelia Whitelaw, Director of Interface, added: “ScotCol demonstrates the value of investing in college-based innovation through high-quality, structured support. By combining hands-on workshops with one-to-one mentoring, the programme equipped students with practical tools, confidence, and connections to turn their ideas into viable ventures. At Interface, we believe that unlocking this kind of potential within the college sector is vital to achieving Scotland’s inclusive innovation goals—and models like ScotCol show exactly what’s possible with the right backing.”
The participants developed some key business and personal skills through taking part in the programme, increasing their confidence as well as understanding customer needs better.
Former social worker Leeann Lavery, a student at Ayrshire college, has ambitions to launch a business supporting carers – both paid and unpaid.
“The programme helped me understand the world of business better, how to refine my idea and make it bigger. During the course, my thinking has gone from ‘maybe this could work’ to ‘let’s make this work’. It’s given me invaluable skills, advice and guidance and the confidence to go for it and take the next steps.”
Cerys Venters-Scott, who studied at Edinburgh College, secured £5,000 funding for her business idea – developing women’s underwear which can incorporate insulin pumps and stoma bags – shortly after taking part in the programme. She said: “I felt far more prepared and confident for my pitch to the Royal Company of Merchants, which is a significant boost to my business.
“Gathering customer research through interviews gave me valuable insights, and it turned out that most of the questions they asked were directly related to this research. Without this programme, I wouldn’t have thought to approach my market research in that way”.
Edinburgh College student Claire Williams valued the focus on research during ScotCol. She said: “The research helped to prove the concept I had for my business, so was invaluable. Along with the mentors, including Louise Arnold, the other students had good advice and insights from their own experiences, so that peer mentoring was an added bonus.”
#ChooseCollege is a national campaign celebrating the vital role of Scotland’s colleges and encouraging prospective students to explore the wide range of opportunities they offer. After the success of last year’s campaign, Scotland’s colleges are once again coming together with a shared voice to highlight the powerful impact of colleges on education, skills, communities, and the economy.
Boutique Innovation and Interface are planning the next ScotCol Accelerator programme after funding was secured through the Scottish Government’s Ecosystem Fund, announced last month by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes.
Thanks to Louise Arnold for her contribution to this article.
Congratulations to our Strategic Board member Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne on receiving an honorary degree, Doctor of Business Administration from Queen Margaret University, for her outstanding contribution to food development and innovation. We thank you for the experience, enthusiasm and knowledge that you bring to Interface.
We also extend congratulations to Patrick Grant, designer, entrepreneur and TV judge, who was officially installed as the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University and to Scottish actress and narrator, Ashley Jensen and the former Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Society, Shona McCarthy who were also honoured at the ceremony in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall.
Photo caption L to R: Ashley Jensen, Shona McCarthy, Patrick Grant, Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne and Sir Paul Grice
Another round of funding of £100,000 has been announced by the Scottish Government and innovation support organisation Interface to encourage businesses outwith Scotland to collaborate/partner with academics, bringing in knowledge, skills and potential jobs.
The Scottish Inward Investment Fund awards up to £10,000 for projects focussed on one of nine key investment areas including net zero, health, and energy transition.
It is open to businesses of any size currently engaged or looking to engage with a Scottish university, college, research institute, innovation centre or research pool but without an existing base of operations in Scotland.
The fund, which provides a unique opportunity to combine innovation seed funding with academic expertise and commercial traction, has supported 34 projects since its launch in 2021.
Minister for Business, Richard Lochhead, said: “Inward investment is critical to driving economic growth, supporting jobs and creating news ones – and Scotland boasts a remarkable track record in attracting investment from across the globe. A key factor in this success is the skills, expertise and innovation offered by our world-renowned universities and research capabilities.
“The Inward Investment Catalyst Fund is about bringing together Scottish academia and companies based outwith Scotland to collaborate on projects which have the potential to translate into future inward investment into Scotland. The Fund has already led to several businesses establishing roots and operations in the country and I look forward to this new round of funding acting as the catalyst to more successful partnerships.”
Howell Davies, Interface’s Head of Strategic Programmes and Funding, added: “We are really starting to see the acceleration of impacts from this fund. Of the nine projects funded last year, three of the companies have set up or spun-out operations in Scotland: ZIYX, registered in Nottingham have established an office in Glasgow employing three staff with plans to expand; Italian-based Gruppo Sismica have spun out a Scottish business in Glasgow, strengthening its ties with local academic partners for future innovation and Vaste, from London, have now based their headquarters in Edinburgh.”
Tech company Vaste worked with Edinburgh College to develop their online procurement platform to help bioenergy, biofuel, and biotechnology companies source reliable sustainable materials for their operations. Evans Chelal, Founder and Chief Executive of Vaste, said: “The Inward Investment Catalyst Fund has given Vaste far more than capital. We’ve benefitted from strategic open doors to key stakeholders, including customers, talent, and investors. Through this support, Vaste can scale faster, reach further, and deliver more value than we could by ourselves.”
Scottish Development International are working with a number of the other recipients to support their journey in a “Team Scotland” approach.
The deadline for applications to the fund is Friday, 11 July, 2025. More information can be found here.
About the fund
The Scottish Inward Investment Catalyst Fund was launched by Interface and Scottish Government to support businesses not yet located in Scotland to work with Scottish academic institutions.
All the funded projects support a net zero, health and wellbeing economy with the principles of fair work and sustainable, inclusive growth, and are part of the Scottish Government’s Inward Investment Plan, which articulates the important role that inward investment can play in Scotland’s economic growth and in delivering net zero ambitions.
Photo above shows Richard Lochhead, Minister for Business, at the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards 2025.
Interface, the business-academic innovation support organisation, has welcomed two new members to its Strategic Board.
John Whaling, Lead Officer for Innovation & Commercialisation at Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, and Sam Myers, Head of Investment Strategy at UK Research and Innovation bring extensive expertise in driving regional growth, economic development, and innovation strategy.
Professor Wayne Powell, Principal and Chief Executive of Scotland’s Rural College and Chair of Interface Strategic Board, said: “We are delighted to welcome John and Sam to the Strategic Board, where their knowledge and new perspectives will be an excellent asset. This is an exciting time for the Board to build on Interface’s strong foundations and support its ambition to drive inclusive innovation to enhance Scotland’s competitiveness by fostering strong, collaborative partnerships between academia and industry.”
Amelia Whitelaw, Director of Interface, said: “I am pleased to strengthen our board with these appointments. Sam brings a national and international lens through his work at UKRI and across government, combining investment strategy, policy insight, and global experience. John’s leadership in shaping one of the UK’s most ambitious place-based innovation ecosystems, and his strength in forging impactful public-private-academic partnerships, will be invaluable as we navigate complex innovation landscapes and scale Interface’s impact across Scotland.”
Full details of the Interface Strategic Board can be found here: Our Board | Interface Online
Biographies
John Whaling, Lead Officer for Innovation & Commercialisation, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
John Whaling is a collaborative place leader with over 25 years’ experience of pioneering economic development and “making things happen” at the interface between public, private, and higher education sectors.
For the last 10 years, John has been convening and championing all aspects of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s (LCR) innovation agenda and ecosystem, latterly as the Combined Authority’s Lead Officer for Innovation & Commercialisation. His primary role is to catalyse partnerships, policies, and programmes that maximise the LCR’s distinctive, world-leading assets and capabilities, in order to drive transformational regional/national economic growth and solve intractable local challenges. The LCR is now at the forefront of UK place-based innovation, with innovation a primary Mayoral priority.
He previously worked at the LCR Local Enterprise Partnership, Liverpool Vision, and St. Helens Council, where he led a series of successful programmes that included a national City Growth Strategy pilot, plus delivery of the landmark, multi-award-winning 20m Dream sculpture by Jaume Plensa overlooking the M62, commissioned by ex-miners as part of Channel 4’s “Big Art Project”.
Prior to local government, John spent 2 years working for the European Commission in Brussels, has also lived/worked in Germany, the USA, and Canada, grew up in Edinburgh, and speaks German and French.
In a voluntary capacity he is Chair of Future Yard CIC, whose mission is to positively transform both Birkenhead and the nature of what a UK grassroots music venue does, based on the founding principle that music can change the world.
Sam Myers, Head of Investment Strategy, UK Research and Innovation
Sam works for UK Research & Innovation (UKRI), the UK’s largest public research and innovation agency, leading on investment strategy. UKRI invests nearly £9bn per year in a diverse portfolio of people and careers, places and infrastructure, ideas and innovation; Sam’s team works to maximise the value of these investments.
Previously Sam worked at the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) in Singapore, where he was responsible for the trade and investment relationship between ASEAN and the UK. Before joining DBT, Sam worked for the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, where he established the UK Science Policy and Relations function.
Sam’s Civil Service career began in 2001 as a graduate FastStreamer in the Department for Trade and Industry, where he ran a Minister’s Private Office before becoming the Head of External Relations for the Department. He spent 6 years in Asia with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, boosting science and technology partnerships with Southeast Asia and China.
Sam’s structural biology research at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, was published in the journal Science and he has a Masters in Biochemistry from the University of Bath.
Image above shows John Whaling, left, and Sam Myers.
We are delighted to share that Dr Alicia Greated, a member of Interface’s Strategic Board, has been elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE). This prestigious honour recognises Alicia’s significant contributions to research, innovation and international collaboration. We’re proud to work alongside her and extend our warmest congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.
We extend congratulations to all the 2025 fellows. Read the full announcement here: Hubble scientist and legendary cartoonist among RSE Fellows 2025 : Royal Society of Edinburgh
The winners of the 10th Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards have been revealed.
An event held at the Edinburgh Futures Institute on the 19th March brought together Scotland’s rich ecosystem of talent to celebrate transformational collaborations between businesses, communities, universities, colleges, and research institutes which are solving industry challenges, improving productivity, advancing research and supporting Scotland’s ambition to be one of the most innovative small nations in the world.
Developments in renewable energy, mental health, medicine and food and drink scooped awards across 10 categories.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead said: “It was good to see the full breadth of academic and business-led innovation on show at Interface’s annual awards.
“It demonstrated why our expertise in so many sectors is revered around the world, from renewable energy and health technology, to food and drink.
“Scotland has been at the forefront of many of the world’s most impactful innovations, from the MRI Scanner and penicillin to televisions and telephones. Yet, by combining research and business, so many new and exciting Scottish breakthroughs are just on the horizon and that is something we should all champion.””
Amelia Whitelaw, Director of Interface, which organises the Awards, said: “The Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards celebrate successful partnerships where knowledge is shared to create new solutions. The nominees and winners we are celebrating exemplify how collaboration drives valuable advancements. These partnerships have led to the development of new technologies, products, and services that contribute to economic progress and societal benefit. Their innovations are not only transforming Scotland but also have the potential to make a global impact.”
The winners are:
Innovation of the Year – sponsored by HGF Ltd
SolarSub Ltd, in collaboration with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) at the University of Strathclyde, for refining the design of a solar panel cooling system, optimising it for manufacturing and scalability. Additionally, in partnership with Heriot-Watt University, the technology underwent rigorous field trials to evaluate its performance under extreme heat conditions, ensuring its robustness and efficacy.
Innovator of the Future – sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Joint winners: Dr Dayi Zhang and Matthew Gibson
Dr Dayi Zhang, Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate working with the University of Strathclyde and Inspectahire Instrument Co. Ltd for developing a portable, non-invasive ultrasonic device that revolutionises whisky cask monitoring. Designed for Scotland’s iconic whisky industry, the device enhances safety, reduces costs, and minimises carbon emissions, aligning with net zero goals. This innovation preserves cultural heritage while driving environmental progress and local economic growth.
Matthew Gibson, KTP Associate working with the University of Strathclyde and Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd, is creating the next generation of data-driven condition monitoring solutions for the oil and gas sector. This project is developing the Vision© reliability platform and has demonstrated reduced machine downtime and energy waste, in pursuit of net zero and sustainable engineering processes.
Inward Investment Impact – sponsored by International Social Enterprise Observatory
Canon Medical Research Europe and the University of Edinburgh for bringing new AI Innovation and thinking to the heart of the business. The relationship contributed to increased inward investment and headcount in Canon Edinburgh as well as new collaborative research funding opportunities in the research and translation of Causal AI.
Knowledge Exchange Champion – sponsored by Knowledge Exchange UK
Winner: Professor John Bachtler
Professor John Bachtler has transformed Scotland’s regional policy knowledge exchange through 40 years of leadership at the European Policies Research Centre at the University of Strathclyde. He advanced policy innovation via networks such as EoRPA and IQ-Net, linking Scotland with European policy frameworks. His strategic insights, mentoring, and impactful KE collaborations strengthened regional development policy, inspired future leaders, and enhanced Scotland’s European policy influence.
Highly Commended: Dr Andrea Rodriguez and Dr Bryan McCann
Dr Andrea Rodriguez, the University of Dundee, for sustaining engagement and impact on non-academic audiences by co-designing an international knowledge exchange programme on youth homelessness. Helping Young People Feel at Home took a multi-agency approach, involving critical thinking and dialogue with young people in Scotland and Brazil to improve service provision and professional practices.
Dr Bryan McCann, Glasgow Caledonian University, has championed knowledge exchange throughout his academic career, establishing several strategic partnerships within the physical activity and mental health sectors. These partnerships have facilitated innovative and high-quality student placements, generated income for impactful knowledge exchange programmes, and contributed to health and wellbeing across Scotland.
Knowledge Exchange Heroes – team and individual – sponsored by Azets Ltd
Individual
Susan Armstrong, KE Lead at Glasgow Caledonian University, has been instrumental in transforming the knowledge exchange landscape at the university through her strategic and collaborative approach. Her efforts, dedication, and unwavering support have significantly advanced the university’s KE initiatives, benefiting both the academic community and industry partners.
Team
The Scottish Centre for Food Development and Innovation (SCFDI) at Queen Margaret University has for 10 years championed KE in the food and drink sector in Scotland. They have developed progressive models for industry/academia KE career pathways, supported an impressive SME client portfolio and attracted increasing attention from global food companies and retailers.
Making a Social Difference
Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) and Glasgow Caledonian University are collaborating to review, redesign and deliver SAMH’s Psychological Wellbeing services. Through partnership SAMH and GCU have developed the Time for You service, supporting mental health of thousands of members of the public via immediate access to free mental health support, delivered by GCU Trainee Psychologists.
Making an Environmental Difference
Renewable Parts Ltd and the University of Strathclyde’s collaboration applies circular economy principles within the wind turbine decommissioning process, promoting the refurbishment and remanufacturing of high-integrity, high-value parts within the wind energy sector, instead of being recycled and returned to raw materials or, worse still, landfill. This circularity approach will have a significant impact on the UK economy and net-zero targets.
Multiparty Collaboration
Winner:
Medical Device Manufacturing Centre (MDMC) – Heriot-Watt University, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Glasgow, the University of Dundee, Robert Gordon University and over 170 medical device companies, to develop and commercialise innovative medical devices.
Highly Commended:
The Underwater Intervention for Offshore Renewable Energies (UNITE) project, a partnership between The National Robotarium, Heriot-Watt University, Imperial College London, Frontier Robotics and Fugro, is developing advanced AI and autonomous systems for undertaking remote inspections of offshore wind farms to offer a safe, efficient and sustainable solution for global energy providers.
Place-based Impact sponsored by Business Gateway
Winner:
Digital Dairy Chain – Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), the University of Strathclyde, the University of the West of Scotland, First Milk, Lactalis, NMR, SmartSTEMs, Kendal Nutricare, CENSIS and Cows & Co, is transforming the dairy sector across the South and West of Scotland and Cumbria. This partnership is driving innovation, enhancing productivity, and stimulating job creation, contributing to sustained economic growth in the region.
Highly Commended:
Control of Sheep Scab – Moredun Research Institute, Lewis and Harris Sheep Producers Association, The Old Mill Veterinary Practice, Scottish Government, The Crofters of Lewis & Harris, Lewis Crofters, Neil Fell Mobile Dipping Ltd, Zoetis Animal Health Ltd and Bimeda Ltd has developed a community-led approach to prevent and control sheep scab. This project demonstrates how a coordinated, collaborative effort can effectively prevent disease, improve sheep welfare and productivity, and rekindle a strong sense of community.
Powerful Partnership sponsored by Skillfluence
Vertebrate Antibodies-EpitogenX Ltd and the University of Aberdeen have developed transformative AI-powered diagnostics leveraging the innovative Epitogen® recombinant technology for diagnosing autoimmune and infectious diseases. This long-term collaboration has yielded world-first solutions, fostering global recognition, creating skilled talent, and driving economic and health advancements.
Join the conversation on X at #SKEAwards and LinkedIn at @Interface.
- Abertay University launches CoSTAR Realtime Lab as creative industries technologies converge
- Dundee’s first dedicated virtual production studio opens at Water’s Edge
- Additional virtual production facilities established at the University of Edinburgh with Edinburgh College of Art and First Stage Studios
A new £9m virtual production studio will drive research, innovation and economic growth in Scotland’s screen, games, immersive and performance industries.
Abertay University launched the CoSTAR Realtime Lab at Water’s Edge, Dundee on Tuesday 18 February marking the start of operations for a major infrastructure project that will provide a significant boost to Scotland’s screen industries. This cutting-edge programme will bring new opportunities and expert support to UK creative and technology companies working across the breadth of the creative industries.
The CoSTAR Network represents the largest investment in Creative Industries R&D to date with a £75.6M grant awarded by the UKRI Infrastructure Fund and delivered by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.
The CoSTAR Realtime Lab is led by Abertay University and the total project investment is £9m operated in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, CodeBase, Interface and Chroma Developments.
Creative companies from across the UK and beyond will have the opportunity to work with the CoSTAR Realtime Lab, benefitting from state-of-the-art research and development (R&D) facilities and access to industry experts and academic researchers.
The studio at Chroma Developments’ Water’s Edge in Dundee marks the beginning of the CoSTAR Realtime Lab’s work, with a further studio led by the University of Edinburgh to open at First Stage Studios in Edinburgh in March 2025. The facilities will be connected through the Realtime Cloud Lab supporting remote access and collaboration from anywhere in the world.
Virtual production—a cinematography technique that employs computer-generated imagery (CGI), augmented reality, and motion capture to create immersive virtual film, game and performance sets – will be at the heart of the CoSTAR Realtime Lab’s work and represents a significant opportunity for creative companies working with real time technologies.
Researchers will support industry-led projects to generate new products and processes to improve production pipelines including, 3D environments and video processing, performance and motion capture, facial animation, automated speech and dynamic generation of hyper-realistic digital film sets and many others. The CoSTAR Realtime Lab’s work will also look at ways to enhance spectator experiences at concerts, live events and museums and how immersive technologies like Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality can be better used and integrated.
Blending Abertay University’s internationally renowned expertise in video games and technology with the University of Edinburgh’s world-leading AI, animation and film capabilities, the partnership will build transformative new processes, pipelines, tools and workflows to help companies grow, while de-risking opportunities to diversify and take on new projects and clients.
The CoSTAR Realtime Lab will create opportunities for Scotland’s screen innovators to access next generation production technologies and support them to apply their creativity, skills and expertise to create new technologies, design new experiences and establish new markets. Access will be offered through a series of open programmes, giving companies and creatives the opportunity to test, develop and refine their ideas.
One of the main programmes is the Realtime TEST Lab, which offers creative companies, creatives and innovators access to resources to experiment with virtual production and creative technologies in content production or software development before committing further investment in their final productions. The Realtime TEST Lab is supported with funding from Screen Scotland.
The CoSTAR Realtime Lab will also offer support through Collaborative R&D – a way of working in partnership that can be activated by companies, individuals and project staff in conversation with the CoSTAR Realtime Lab. Scale-up and start-up training and support will also be provided by CodeBase through its Techscaler programme.
Further CoSTAR Network programmes include the Pilots and Prototypes Programme (PPP), a £3.6 million fund for UK companies to develop new ideas by accessing technical and research capabilities, and the Enterprise and Commercial programme (E&C) supporting the growth of highly capable, inclusive, and sustainable creative technology businesses.
In addition to its main partners, CoSTAR Realtime Lab is supported by Screen Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia and VSS-Scotland.
For more information visit https://www.costarnetwork.co.uk/ or follow @costarnetwork.
Full information and funding calls can be found online: Access Programmes | CoSTAR
Professor Gregor White, Director of the CoSTAR Realtime Lab said: “With the technologies that power our screen-based experiences in film, games and performance rapidly converging there’s an opportunity for companies working in these sectors to diversify their offer, explore new markets and push the boundaries of what was previously thought possible in their sectors. Bringing together international-quality academic researchers with industry experience and enterprise support, CoSTAR Realtime Lab is a truly collaborative project which will break down barriers for the Scottish creative industries, encourage entrepreneurship and experimentation, and provide a space where innovation can flourish.”
Professor Melissa Terras MBE, Edinburgh College of Art, Co-director of the CoSTAR Realtime Lab said: “Scotland has vibrant creative industries, with world-leading activity in festivals, film/TV, music, heritage, and games in particular. Building a bridge between creatives and technologists will allow us to support the development of new products and services, while also ensuring that we are encouraging diverse access to cutting edge facilities, which will then produce diverse outputs. The partnership behind CoSTAR Realtime Lab is expertly placed to deliver this exciting innovation vehicle to support our creative communities”.
AHRC Executive Chair Professor Christopher Smith said: “The CoSTAR Realtime Lab will build on the strong foundations of Scotland’s gaming cluster, bringing together next generation production technologies, the latest in video game development, and AI and machine learning, to support innovators in the creation of new technologies, experiences, and markets. As part of the CoSTAR network it will play a key role in ensuring that the UK’s creative industries act as a key driver of growth as identified in the government’s industrial strategy. It is by strategically investing in the industries of the future that AHRC shows how arts and humanities research drives innovation and growth in a 21st century economy.”
Chris van der Kuyl CBE, FRSE, Chairman, 4J Studios said: “I’ve always believed in Dundee’s potential as a global leader in technology and digital innovation. That’s why we’ve invested in spaces like Water’s Edge to provide a collaborative infrastructure for the next generation of creators and companies to thrive. The launch of the CoSTAR Realtime Lab is a major step in that journey, bringing cutting-edge virtual production technology to Dundee and securing its position at the forefront of real-time content creation. This is a huge opportunity for Scotland’s screen industries, and I’m incredibly proud to support it.”
UK Government Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “This project is beyond exciting – the possibilities it creates for the entertainment industry are endless. The UK Government’s investment in cutting-edge initiatives like this is central to our Plan for Change to create the jobs and opportunities that will raise living standards right across the UK.
“It’s a tremendous feather in the cap of Brand Scotland too, demonstrating to the world that Dundee and Scotland is a centre of excellence for the screen and gaming industries as we push into new markets and further strengthen the sector. I wish the team at Abertay University every success with the opening of the new facility.”
Stephen Coleman OBE, CEO & Co-Founder of CodeBase said: “Supporting the CoSTAR Realtime Lab is another great opportunity for CodeBase to play our part as a Scottish ecosystem builder and a champion of tech-driven enterprise and entrepreneurship. We are always looking for new ways to collaborate with specialists in different technology domains and to leverage our delivery of Techscaler, Scotland’s national tech backbone for the benefit of the ecosystem as a whole, building on Scotland’s unique strengths in talent, research, and innovation.“
Howell Davies, Head of Strategic Funding and Programmes at Interface, said: “CoSTAR’s Realtime Lab is a game-changer for industry seeking to harness the power of real-time technologies. With access to cutting-edge tools, a deep and diverse pool of expertise and talent with a support system for organisations to empower them to innovate and create groundbreaking experiences, it will create significant impact and legacy for the UK’s creative industry and wider.”
Councillor Mark Flynn, Leader of Dundee City Council said: “Dundee has a long history of being at the forefront of technology and innovation for the creative industries and it is wonderful to see the CoSTAR Realtime Lab and its virtual production studio being added to the city’s digital cluster. The video games, screen and performance industries already make a significant contribution to Dundee’s economic and cultural success and collaborative projects like this, supported by both academia and business, are important for the continued growth and future of the sector.”
Revolutionary developments in renewable energy, mental health, education, sport, medicine and food and drink have made it to the finals of the 10th Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards highlighting the diversity of sectors and disciplines thriving in Scotland.
With 32 individuals, teams and projects shortlisted across 10 categories, the 10th anniversary celebration will be the largest to date.
Amelia Whitelaw, Director of Interface, which organises the Awards, said: “At Interface, we are proud to deliver the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards on behalf of Scotland’s vibrant innovation ecosystem. These awards are more than just a celebration of achievements—they showcase the transformative power of collaboration between academia and industry. Each finalist represents the spirit of partnership, driving solutions that create lasting economic, environmental, and social impact. As we mark the 10th anniversary of these awards, we are inspired by the breadth and depth of innovation thriving across Scotland, reaffirming our commitment to fostering connections that unlock new opportunities and strengthen Scotland’s future.”
The awards ceremony will take place at Edinburgh Futures Institute on 19th March.
The finalists are:
Innovation of the Year – sponsored by HGF Ltd
Highland Heat Harvesters Ltd and Robert Gordon University
SolarSub Ltd, Heriot-Watt University and the University of Strathclyde
SymphoMe Ltd and the University of Stirling
Innovator of the Future – sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Dr Dayi Zhang – Inspectahire Instruments Company Ltd and the University of Strathclyde
Matthew Gibson – Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd and the University of Strathclyde
Dr Sonam Norbu – The Crichton Trust and the University of Glasgow
Inward Investment Impact – sponsored by International Social Enterprise Observatory
Canon Medical Research Europe and the University of Edinburgh
Smartify and the University of the West of Scotland
ZIYX and the University of the West of Scotland
Knowledge Exchange Champion – sponsored by Knowledge Exchange UK
Dr Andrea Rodriguez, the University of Dundee
Dr Bryan McCann, Glasgow Caledonian University
Professor John Bachtler, the University of Strathclyde
Knowledge Exchange Heroes – team and individual – sponsored by Azets Ltd
Individual
Kevin McIver, Heriot-Watt University
Dr Kirsty Ross, the University of St Andrews
Susan Armstrong, Glasgow Caledonian University
Team
Scottish Centre for Food Development Innovation, Queen Margaret University
Formulation Unit, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, the University of Strathclyde
Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, the University of Dundee
Making a Social Difference
Enable and Edinburgh Napier University
Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) and Glasgow Caledonian University
Sport Aberdeen and Glasgow Caledonian University
Making an Environmental Difference
Heerema Marine Contractors Nederland SE and the University of Dundee
National Trust for Scotland and the University of the Highlands & Islands
Renewable Parts Ltd and the University of Strathclyde
Multiparty Collaboration
INTErPRET-NAFLD – Bering Limited, HistoIndex, BioDev, Precision Medicine Scotland and the University of Edinburgh
Medical Device Manufacturing Centre (MDMC) – Heriot-Watt University, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Glasgow, the University of Dundee, Robert Gordon University and over 170 medical device companies
Underwater Intervention for Offshore Renewable Energies (UNITE) – Heriot-Watt University, Imperial College London, Frontier Robotics, Fugro
Place-based Impact sponsored by Business Gateway
Digital Dairy Chain – Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), the University of Strathclyde, the University of the West of Scotland, First Milk, Lactalis, NMR, SmartSTEMs, Kendal Nutricare, CENSIS and Cows & Co
Control of Sheep Scab – Moredun Research Institute, Lewis and Harris Sheep Producers Association, The Old Mill Veterinary Practice, Scottish Government, The Crofters of Lewis & Harris, Lewis Crofters, Neil Fell Mobile Dipping Ltd, Zoetis Animal Health Ltd and Bimeda Ltd
Powerful Partnership sponsored by Skillfluence
BAE Systems and the University of Strathclyde
Safehinge Primera and Glasgow Caledonian University
Vertebrate Antibodies-EpitogenX Ltd and the University of Aberdeen
Read more about the projects here: The Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards | Interface Online
Join the conversation on X at #SKEAwards and LinkedIn at @Interface.
Photo above shows the shortlisted Knowledge Exchange Champions, from left Dr Andrea Rodriguez, the University of Dundee, Dr Bryan McCann, Glasgow Caledonian University and Professor John Bachtler, the University of Strathclyde.