EDAS celebrates quarter of a century of driving economic innovation
Scottish Government minister takes part in special celebration and highlights organisation’s role in building ‘community of economic talent’ across Scotland
Economic development professionals are being urged to be key ‘agents of change’ with their talent more critical than ever to ensure a stronger, fairer more sustainable Scotland.
The call to action came as The Economic Development Association of Scotland (EDAS), the country’s forefront membership body for professionals in the sector, celebrated its 25th birthday at a special conference in Glasgow. It highlighted the pivotal role that the organisation and its members play in championing prosperity, and accelerating a just transition, net zero and tackling inequality and poverty
Speaking at the event, Scottish Government Minister for Employment and Investment, Tom Arthur MSP, said: “To drive sustainable growth, we need to bridge sectors to exchange ideas, boost skills and create confidence.
“Doing so ensures that public investment delivers for our people, creating more opportunities and shared prosperity in our communities”
“EDAS is a pivotal voice championing the conversation in Scotland and working cross-sector to create tangible benefits. So, I was pleased to speak at its 25th anniversary conference and I look forward to continuing our work together.”
The celebration event, held at the Social Hub on Tuesday (May 26), brought together key stakeholders from the public, private, academic and third sectors to reflect on a quarter century of progress for EDAS, explore current challenges and consider the future of the Scottish economy.
It featured keynote addresses from prominent voices in economic and climate policy, including renowned progressive economics commentator and author Grace Blakely, and Professor of societal challenges of climate change at the University of Lausanne Julia Steinberger, who both framed EDAS work within wider global economic and democratic crises emphasising central role for public economic agencies, Community Wealth Building and inclusive and Democratic Business Models and in forging resilience, social and ecological inclusion.
A panel discussion, moderated by former EDAS board member Charlie Woods, brought together key figures from the organisation, including Founder and Chair from 1999-2005 Jean Hamilton, Robert Pollock (Chaired twice between 2013 and 2022) Neil McInroy (current Chair) and Chair of the EDAS Future Leaders Network Clare Stoddart. They shared insights on the evolution of economic development in Scotland and their ambitions for the organisation.
Neil McInroy, an internationally-recognised expert in Community Wealth Building, highlighted the need for economic development community to be bold in its ambitions.:
He said: “We are all economic agents for positive change.The economy is at an inflexion point-a pivotal crossroads as we move from an unsustainable, unequal economy to a fairer, greener and more dynamic economy that works for people, planet and place.
“Scotland is awash with talent and throughout the 25 years of EDAS, there has been a relentless desire from our members to innovate and adapt to economic turbulence.
“Our discipline has never been more essential. Now more than ever we need to build on our long-standing reputation of expertise and delivery and harness that passion to deliver a better future for all Scots.”
The event also provided an opportunity for audience Q&A, as well as the presentation of special awards honouring contributions to EDAS and economic development over the years followed by a special musical performance from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.