Over 150 business leaders, policymakers, and city workers gathered at the Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa on 18th June for the Dundee Economic Summit. The event focused on building a dynamic, resilient future for the city.

The summit sponsored by McLaughlin & Harvey and SSEN Transmission, with additional backing from Loganair and Invest in Dundee, brought together influential voices across business, government, and civic society. It explored key themes shaping Dundee’s economic landscape – including revitalising the high street, harnessing AI in business, and preparing for political and economic change.

Opening the summit was Dundee City Council convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Steven Rome. His presentation reflected on the changing face of Dundee and the Waterfront, as well as the rise of new economic sectors like life sciences and healthcare, gaming, the creative industries and low-carbon technologies.

Councillor Rome also explained how the creation of an economic vision for the future of the city – Dundee’s Growth Story – will identify the opportunities to drive economic growth. He said:

We’re proud of the progress Dundee has made so far, but we also recognise that there’s still much more to do. Our goal is clear. To build a vibrant, inclusive economy that creates jobs for our people and contributes meaningfully to Scotland’s national growth.

That is why we are developing a new Economic Vision and Action Plan which will identify the key opportunities we can build on to drive economic growth, such as transitioning to a knowledge economy or leading the way in clean, green growth.

Attendees were joined by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, who shared her vision for Dundee’s economic future. Her keynote focused on the Dundee Economic Vision, highlighting the city’s strengths in innovation, culture, and investment. She also addressed the current challenges facing the University of Dundee, acknowledging its vital role in the city’s economy and community. Forbes affirmed the Scottish Government’s ongoing support to help the institution navigate its financial difficulties and secure its long-term sustainability.

In a powerful keynote address, Martha Lane Fox, technology entrepreneur and crossbench peer in the House of Lords, delivered a compelling speech on the transformative power of AI in business. Her talk inspired attendees to embrace digital innovation as a catalyst for sustainable growth, urging local enterprises to lead with curiosity and ethical responsibility in the AI era.

Other key speakers included:

• Philip Bartlet, NatWest, who delivered a comprehensive economic update, highlighting both national trends and local opportunities for growth.
• Andy MacIver, Message Matters, who offered sharp insights into the current political landscape, exploring how shifting narratives in Westminster and Holyrood could influence Dundee’s path ahead.

The summit also featured a lively panel discussion with thought leaders from across Dundee’s civic, business and academic communities. Hosted by the event’s MC, Alison Henderson, CEO of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce, questions were posed to:

• Andrew Batchelor, Dundee Culture
• David Tuck, Waracle
• Kimberly Guthrie, Scotland’s Towns Partnership
• Cullen Warnock, Abertay University

Together, they discussed the future of Dundee’s high street, community-led regeneration, and how local identity and digital innovation can work hand in hand.

The summit was a celebration of the city’s ambition and unity, with spirited discussions reflecting a shared commitment to progress, community empowerment, and sustainable economic development.

Alison Henderson shared her thoughts on the day:

It was fantastic to see so many passionate people in one room, all focused on Dundee’s future. The mix of big ideas like AI and economic strategy alongside real conversations about our high street and local business challenges made for a brilliant, energising day. You could really feel the buzz and optimism in the room. I’m looking forward to seeing how the conversations in the room turn into actions.

The Dundee Economic Summit was hailed by attendees as a valuable forum for collaboration, vision, and action – and a testament to the city’s readiness to shape its own future.