Data & AI Exchange

Exploring how data & AI can serve Scotland’s economy and society — real challenges, real examples, real conversations.

Scotland’s ambitions for Data and AI are accelerating — opening significant opportunities for economic growth, improved public services, and societal benefit. At the same time, these ambitions are increasingly colliding with real-world constraints, from infrastructure and skills to trust, governance, and public confidence.

As the home of AI in Europe and a global leader in data capture and management, the University of Edinburgh is uniquely placed to convene leaders from across Scotland’s academic, industry, and public-sector ecosystem. Join us to explore both the opportunities and challenges shaping Scotland’s Data and AI future, using real-life examples to examine what is working, where barriers remain, and what needs to change.

As technology evolves at breakneck speed — with advances in AI, quantum computing, and immersive digital environments — Scotland faces critical choices. How do we harness innovation to deliver public value and economic impact, while ensuring people, institutions, and governance frameworks are ready to adapt?

Through a series of lightning talks and provocative, discussion-led sessions, participants will reflect on issues spanning skills and workforce development, real-world applications, governance, and societal impact. The event invites open conversation and collaboration to help shape a data and AI future that works for Scotland’s economy and wider society.

Who should attend? This event is designed for those shaping Scotland’s Data and AI future, including:

• Public sector and policy leaders working in digital, data, innovation, health, justice, transport, and local government

• Industry leaders and practitioners developing or deploying AI and data-driven technologies

• Economic development and innovation stakeholders, including City Deal and DDI partners

• Academic and research leaders working at the intersection of data, AI, society, and public value

• Third sector and civic organisations engaged in digital inclusion, safeguarding, and societal impact