In October, IBioIC had the pleasure of sponsoring and participating in the 2nd annual A3 Scotland conference, jointly organised by HIE and SRUC. This event brought together around 200 industry leaders, innovators and experts from the Aquaculture, Agriculture, and Agri-tech sectors to discuss key topics shaping the industry.

Top Moments from the Conference

Annelie and Caroline, from our IBioIC Business Engagement team, shared their reflections on the event:

Insights from Key Leaders
One of the standout moments was hearing from Minister for Business Richard Lochhead and Chief Veterinary Officer Sheila Voas. They addressed the pressing issue of limited public funding for later-stage projects, sparking crucial discussions on innovative funding solutions and collaborative opportunities.

Innovations in Digital Technology
The conference buzzed with cutting-edge digital innovations. Businesses showcased how these technologies are transforming natural resource management, offering exciting glimpses into a more sustainable and tech-driven future.

Start-Up Showcase
The start-ups showcase was another real highlight! We thoroughly enjoyed listening to teh pitches and presentations from new companies entering the industry. We were particularly inspired by Beta Bugs, whose pitch highlighted the immense potential of digital solutions in driving industry transformation.

Launch of the Life Sciences Growth Fund
In a response to the concern over the issue of limited public funding for later stage projects and scale-up’s, Highlands and Islands Enterprise launched the Life Sciences Growth Fund. This initiative aims to foster growth and innovation in the sector, providing a much needed boost for companies looking to scale-up.

Building Connections
Networking was another key highlight. We connected with representatives from Moredun, SRUC, HIE, Innovate UK, CPI, JHI, SAMS, and UK Agritech, setting the stage for future collaborations. We’re particularly excited about upcoming events like Moredun’s Aquaculture Day and a visit to SRUC's Greenshed Project.

The conference was an inspiring experience, and we’re eager to see how these discussions and connections will shape the future of our sector.