A new series of ‘pop-up’ hubs in cultural venues across Fife will aim to increase the number of tech startups being founded across the region.
The Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy, Rothes Hall in Glenrothes, and Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries will host work space and events for would-be tech entrepreneurs.
Operated by OnFife, the local council’s arms-length cultural body, the venues will partner in the endeavour with the Scottish Government’s £42 million nationwide Techscaler scheme.
CodeBase, which delivers the national programme, will support the venture through its regional series of activities, providing entrepreneurs with access to education and mentoring resources.
Heather Stuart, OnFife chief executive, said: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity for Fife tech businesses, start-ups and entrepreneurs. We’re looking forward to working in partnership with CodeBase to help with its plans to create a network across the kingdom that supports tech innovation through culture, community, businesses and education.”
Chris Boyland, VP of Regional Engagement at CodeBase, said: “At its heart, Techscaler is community-focused and driven. Our regional teams and hubs, operated by colleagues with strong connections to their local areas, work closely with enterprise agencies, local partners and stakeholders to mitigate the challenges faced by founders and startups in regions around Scotland.
“We look forward to developing the partnership with OnFife, and the considerable opportunity to help grow the tech ecosystem and support entrepreneurs and founders across Fife.”
Co-working and hotdesking space will be made available at the venues and entrepreneurs seeking to take advantage of the Techscaler programme will get access to a range of in-person and online community events.
They will also have access to the full Techscaler programme, which helps companies and entrepreneurs start and scale-up their businesses through education programmes, expert mentoring, and a growing network of physical hubs.
Launched in 2022, Techscaler supported more than 500 companies in 2023, according to its annual report, and now has around 2,500 members, with firms supported by Techscaler attracting investment of more than £50 million last year.
Fife-based entrepreneur Julie Grieve, former founder and CEO of hotel and hospitality app Criton, said: “Techscaler is an excellent resource for startups, scale-ups, and those who have an idea for a business they want to validate. I believe that Fife businesses will find this new partnership very useful and I look forward to working with more businesses from the region.”
Pamela Stevenon, Fife Council’s service manager for economic development, said: “The partnership with OnFife and CodeBase represents a great stride towards nurturing innovation and fostering entrepreneurship in Fife. Our team is committed to working with OnFife to empower the next generation of Techscalers.”
The first of a series of events takes place at Adam Smith Theatre on Tuesday 23rd July between 12-2pm.
‘Unplugged Kirkcaldy’ will bring together entrepreneurs, techies, creatives, students, investors, and other regional stakeholders to network, share ideas, and find out more about the scheme.
