As Scotland approaches the announcement of its upcoming budget on December 4th, EDAS AGM offers a timely platform to analyse its potential impact on regional funding, economic priorities, and strategic development. This year’s AGM will bring together economic development leaders and industry experts to discuss how the budget will shape Scotland’s future and the role of EDAS and its members in driving equitable growth.

In his annual address, Professor Graeme Roy, respected economist and Chair of the Scottish Fiscal Commission, will provide insights into the nation’s economic progress and priorities based on the December budget statement, offering an in-depth look at how fiscal changes might influence regional and national development.

This session will feature a panel of senior economic and strategy leaders, including representatives from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland, and South of Scotland Enterprise. Attendees will have the opportunity to join the conversation, engage in live polling, and share perspectives on the direction of Scotland’s economic development.

The EDAS AGM is a chance for members, partners, and stakeholders to explore how the budget could impact regional investments and the steps needed to achieve resilient, inclusive growth across Scotland.

Agenda

15:00 Welcome

Neil McInroy, EDAS Chair

15:05 EDAS AGM Business

David Oxley, Treasurer, EDAS and Director of Strategic Projects at Highlands and Islands Enterprise

15:15 Scotland’s Economic Development: Annual Review, Future Outlook, and the Role of EDAS & its Members

Neil McInroy, Chair, EDAS and Global Lead on Community Wealth Building at the Democracy Collaborative

15:30 State of the Nation: Annual Address on the Nation’s Progress and Future Based on the Budget Statement

Professor Graeme Roy, Deputy Head of College, Assistant Vice Principal & Professor of Economics, University of Glasgow and Chair, Scottish Fiscal Commission

15:45 Audience and Guest Panel Views and Reactions: live discussion & audience polling.

Guest Panel:

Martin Johnson, Director of Strategy and Regional Economy, Highlands and Islands Enterprise

Dinker Bhardwaj, Director of Strategy and Performance, Scottish Enterprise

Chris Brodie, Director of Skills Planning and Sector Development, Skills Development Scotland

Karen Jackson, Director of Strategy, Partnership and Engagement, South of Scotland Enterprise

16:15 Closing Remarks

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