Grant funding agreements totalling £3.1 million have been signed for digital technology projects as part of work to support the wider Aberdeen City Region Deal.
The Digital Challenge Fund supports bold, technology led projects that harness the power of digital innovation to boost the region’s position as a digital leader and provide capital investment to drive connectivity and digital innovation.
Councillor Christian Allard, Aberdeen City Council Co Leader and Chair of the Aberdeen City Region Deal Joint Committee, said: “I am delighted that we are investing so substantially in these creative initiatives Digital technology is at the heart of developing our economy and the projects we are investing in are all embracing innovation to help place the region at the forefront of emerging technologies in Scotland.”
The funding is comprised of £2 million from the Scottish Government funding committed under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and £1,2 million from Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council.
Cllr Anne Stirling, Aberdeenshire Council Co-Leader and ACRD Vice-Chair, added: “Securing £3.1 million through the Digital Challenge Fund is a significant milestone for the Aberdeen City Region Deal and demonstrates our commitment to driving digital innovation across the north-east. These projects will harness new technologies to improve connectivity, develop skills, support key industries and create opportunities for communities and businesses alike. By investing in bold and innovative ideas, we are helping to strengthen the region’s position as a leader in digital excellence while supporting sustainable economic growth and diversification for the future.”
Among the projects which successfully applied for grant funding are, Aberdeen Licensing Infrastructure Programme, Aberdeen Smart Events, Aberdeenshire Ultrafast Wireless Broadband, AgriData North East, Asset Integrity Testing Centre, North East AgriTech Accelerator, Port Sim Digital Toolbox for Port Operations, TEC Proactive Care and UAS Operations Centre.
Business Minister Tom Arthur said: “I’m pleased to see that our £2 million investment is helping support so many innovative projects across the Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire region.
“Through this Digital Challenge Fund, we are backing initiatives that improve connectivity, develop digital skills and accelerate the adoption of new technologies in key sectors from agriculture and healthcare to energy, transport and logistics.
“These projects show how digital excellence can support innovation, drive economic growth and open up new markets, strengthening regional competitiveness and attracting further investment into the North East.”
The Digital Challenge Fund was launched in February this year and supports Aberdeen City Region Deal’s broader mission to accelerate sustainable economic growth, nurture new industries and strengthen the region's standing as a hub of digital excellence.
