An explanation of the context and the focus for the day

Economic future of Life Sciences in Scotland

Find out where Scotland currently sits on a global scale, the opportunities for exports and how it compares to other International Trade Markets.

Who can help you reach global markets?
Who is selling Scotland abroad – have any of them asked about your SME and offered help?
Where are the global success stories for Scottish life science innovators?
For inward investors and those thinking of expanding operations into Scotland, what has Scotland got that Ireland doesn’t already offer (and where you’ll pay lower taxes)?

A chance to grab a coffee and network in the exhibition area

This session will explore innovation in Life Sciences. From the links between AI and Healthcare, drug development and diagnostics.

What progress has Scotland made in AI in healthcare in the last two years – in terms of developing new solutions and in terms of embedding innovation into the NHS?
What are the medicines and technologies discovered in Scotland that were then developed and brought to market in Scotland with the support of the NHS in Scotland?
How do the CSO-funded NHS Regional Innovation Hubs work -how can you get your innovation into one of these?

Hear how the new Glasgow Healthcare Innovation Ecosystem can support innovators.

A chance to enjoy lunch, visit the exhibition stands and network with fellow delegates

This session will explore links between education and industry and how we attract the right talent.

Is the STEM programme working?
How do we go about horizon scanning the skills needs of Scottish LS companies so we can match their needs with the right people?
Are people using the help available through schemes like apprenticeships to develop staff or are they just identifying a skills gap and advertising expecting fully-formed candidates to apply?

Hear from the experts as they talk about their own journey in Scotland's Life Science industry, how they achieved success and the next best steps to take your business to the next level. This session will also look at funding opportunities from large scale investment firms to Angel Investors.

Who is funding SMEs to grow?
How can professional advisory companies support SMEs to grow in a way that is cost effective – are there any other models other than simply fees for services?
Why do LS companies leave Scotland as they grow – and can we put in place whatever they need to keep them here (before they need it)?