Scots face high-tech future

Emerging technologies are seen as the way ahead

The chief executive of Scottish Enterprise has said that Scotland needs to foster innovation if it is to become a major player in the global economy.

Speaking at the enterprise network's annual meeting, Robert Crawford said efforts must be concentrated on securing the long-term future of the Scottish economy

The calls follow a shake-up of the system announced by Enterprise Minister Henry McLeish last month.

The overhaul has been prompted by fierce criticism that the network is cluttered and congested with too many bodies offering assistance.

Sir Ian Wood: "£900m contribution"

Mr Crawford said: "We must ensure that Scotland is perceived internationally as a centre of innovation, excellence, learning and knowledge.

"We need to up our profile in overseas markets, not simply to attract new investment, but to sell our technologies, our innovative products and services and to attract new ideas and skills to Scotland.

"We need to foster strong networks amongst the international expatriate community and use their expertise and advice to help our customers.

"This will help to develop the indigenous Scottish business base both physically and virtually.

"In doing so we will make full use of the internet and emerging e-technologies and commercialisation of university research.

"A key priority will be to tackle economic exclusion by breaking down barriers, to learning, jobs and enterprise in disadvantaged communities in both urban and rural Scotland."

Mr Crawford said that achievements in the year to April included:

• Undertaking 22,190 projects to make businesses and organisations more competitive which will lead to increased sales of around £820m over three years.

• Helping 7,013 new businesses to start-up

• Assisting the creation of 229 new exporters, and introducing existing exporters to 567 new markets.

• Attracting 91 new inward investors, which will create or safeguard 19,300 jobs.

Retiring chairman Sir Ian Wood said: "Our contribution of around £900m a year to Scotland's GDP reflects the increasingly higher value of our output.

"I believe we are creating better quality jobs which will hopefully generate higher incomes."