A new technology council has been set up to assist Scottish ministers on how to maximise the economic benefits of Scotland’s multi-billion technology sector.

The expert group will help shape policy, provide a link between businesses and the Scottish Government and promote Scottish tech companies on the international stage.

The council includes industry leaders and academics with a range of experience in international markets, including health and life sciences, financial services, data and AI, advanced manufacturing and space.

Data shows that the 6,800 information and communication technologies enterprises in Scotland employed 67,800 staff in 2022 while the wider life sciences cluster supported 46,900 jobs.

At the first meeting, Minister for Business and Employment Richard Lochhead said: “Innovation is part of Scotland’s DNA. It is embedded in our culture and our society – and it has the potential to turbocharge our economy. From leading the industrial revolution to television, ultrasound and pioneering renewable technology, Scotland’s inventions have helped shape the world around us and transformed industries and lives.

“Our goal is to help Scotland become a leading tech nation. To ensure the world recognises our pioneering spirit as not just a thing of the past, but as a vital part of our future and to create an environment where businesses and entrepreneurs can flourish, develop new technologies and drive meaningful change.

“Our world is increasingly fast-paced and the council will provide valuable insight from vastly experienced leaders in their fields, who have built their careers at the cutting edge, as we strive to support the sector to deliver high value jobs for generations of Scots, boost international trade and increase our tax revenue to deliver vital public services.”