Economic Summit to Help Shape the Future of Perth and Kinross

The future success of Perth and Kinross will be shaped by the strength of its partnerships.

That's the thinking behind the inaugural Perth and Kinross Economic Summit, which will bring together 300 leaders from business, education, government and the third sector for a day focused on collaboration, practical action and shared ambition.

Sponsored by SSE, the Summit will take place at Perth Concert Hall on Wednesday 9 September, the summit has been designed to identify the priorities that will support business growth, unlock investment and strengthen the region's economy for years to come.

With a welcome from Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, and a keynote address from Susan Campbell of the Scottish National Investment Bank, the event will provide a platform for meaningful discussion, collaboration and action.

Councillor Eric Drysdale, Perth and Kinross Council Leader, commented, “Businesses across Perth and Kinross, and wider Scotland, are navigating a period of unprecedented change. Rising costs, workforce shortages, rapidly changing technologies and the transition to a low-carbon economy are creating new challenges.

“Alongside this, of course, investment, innovation and emerging industries offer significant opportunities. This Economic Summit will provide a platform for delegates to help shape the priorities that will influence economic development across Perth and Kinross over the coming years. I encourage all businesses who are committed to helping deliver on the future success of our area, to make every effort to attend.”

Working in Partnership with Business

Hosted by Steve Stewart, Co-Chair of Perth and Kinross Business Partnership, the Economic Summit has been designed as an interactive, delivery-focused event. Delegates will hear from national speakers and engage with business leader panels, before taking part in facilitated roundtable discussions that will identify practical actions, shared priorities and opportunities for collaboration.

Throughout the day, delegates will feedback on the real challenges facing business today. Discussions will explore how we build economic resilience, strengthen skills and workforce development, unlock investment and improve infrastructure, support sustainable growth through clean innovation, and maximise the opportunities within our rural economy.

The summit is proudly supported by SSE, whose investment reflects a shared commitment to long-term, sustainable economic growth. As a major infrastructure and energy provider based in Perth and Kinross, SSE's work in energy transition, infrastructure investment and workforce development aligns closely with the summit's core themes.

Martin Pibworth, Chief Executive of SSE, said, “As one of the region's largest employers and infrastructure investors, SSE has a direct stake in the future success of Perth and Kinross.

“We're proud to support a summit that brings education, business and government together to shape that future, particularly at a time when the transition clean energy is helping to create jobs, support businesses and drive growth across the region.

“As a company proudly headquartered in Perth, SSE’s sponsorship reflects our long-term commitment to working in partnership with others to see the local economy flourish.”

National insight with a local focus

The keynote speaker, Susan Campbell, Director of Market Creation (Place) at the Scottish National Investment Bank, will explore the national economic landscape and the opportunities available to regions such as Perth and Kinross. Her address will consider topics including business resilience, investment, infrastructure, housing, rural economies and the partnerships needed to deliver sustainable long-term growth.

The summit will also feature an address from the First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, alongside panel discussions exploring business growth, workforce development and investment opportunities.

Your opportunity to shape what comes next

The Perth and Kinross economy has significant strengths. From internationally recognised food and drink businesses to tourism, clean energy, digital innovation, construction and advanced manufacturing, the region is well placed to build on existing success.

However, no single organisation can address the challenges facing the economy alone.

across business, education, and the third sector, the summit will help inform the future work programme of the Perth and Kinross Economic Partnership,

The Economic Summit is an opportunity for businesses, educators, investors, public sector organisations and strategic partners to come together, share experiences and help shape a coordinated response with actions and accountability at the fore.

If you are invested in the future of Perth and Kinross, this is your opportunity to influence what comes next.

Book online via Eventbrite today and be part of the conversation that will help shape the future of the Perth and Kinross economy. Book here > 

Note: Tickets are free but as spaces are limited, they must be booked in advance. 

Thanks to our headline sponsor, SSE

The summit is proudly supported by headline sponsor SSE, who will showcase how they are spearheading the energy transition across the UK from Perth.