The Engage Invest Exploit (EIE) event makes its comeback this week, following a two-year break.
EIE24, spanning two days, will convene approximately 100 investors from across the UK and beyond, featuring a robust lineup of Scottish tech firms seeking investor backing and advice.
Hosted by BBC innovation correspondent Laura Goodwin, EIE24 will unfold across venues such as 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, remarked, “Our aim at EIE24 is to foster an environment conducive to genuine connections between founders, investors, and ecosystem builders, ensuring everyone’s needs align and companies receive the necessary support to scale.
“There’s a perception among some investors of a dearth of viable, growth-ready companies in Scotland for investment.
“We need to help rectify this – there are numerous ambitious founders with innovative technologies that could be the next big thing.”
This year’s event will showcase presentations from nearly 30 technology-driven companies spanning sectors like sustainable energy, healthtech, and fintech. Additionally, there will be networking sessions, panel discussions, and keynote speakers.
Wellbeing Economy Secretary Màiri McAllan is scheduled to attend a private investor evening at Edinburgh Castle.
“A flourishing investment ecosystem is crucial to Scotland’s future economic growth and prosperity,” she stated. “It’s imperative that investors and business founders have conducive conditions to cultivate partnerships that can further our esteemed reputation for entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable growth.
“Since its inception, EIE has played a pivotal role in nurturing these connections, and EIE24 presents a significant opportunity for our burgeoning Scottish tech startup ecosystem to demonstrate its immense potential to national and international investors.”
Mark Logan, chief entrepreneurial advisor to the Scottish Government, chimed in, saying, “The return of EIE as an in-person event is warmly welcomed and will aid in establishing and cultivating relationships.
“It’s a pivotal moment for the Scottish tech ecosystem, and I am particularly eager to be part of this year’s event.
“EIE24 places greater emphasis on a smaller pool of high-quality companies, as well as on forging connections between founders and investors, which is imperative if we aspire to entice investors back.”
Previous EIE events have bolstered over 540 companies, assisting them in securing more than £1.2bn in downstream funding.
The relaunched event is delivered in collaboration with the Data Driven Initiative as part of the £1.3bn Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.
