Tayside and Fife at cutting edge of Scottish business

The economy of Tayside and Fife will be strongly represented when more than £1 million of business growth funding is up for grabs at the latest Scottish EDGE finals.

A total of 20 innovative start-ups will present their vision to a panel of experts chaired by FanDuel’s Rob Duncan and including Dundee entrepreneur Andy Lothian at RBS Gogarburn on December 14.

The shortlist for the final pitching session was whittled down from 54 after a three-day long semi-final.

They include six firms from Tayside and Fife – Bell & Duke, Carruthers Renewables, Cascade Water Products, the Gin Bothy, Hyper Luminal Games, and the Little Herb Farm.

Scottish EDGE CEO Evelyn McDonald said: “The calibre of businesses we’ve seen this round has been exceptional, and our judges had their work cut out deciding who should progress to the final.”

Sir Tom Hunter, Scottish EDGE funder and supporter, said: “Through EDGE we’re seeing a renewed spirit of entrepreneurship developing in Scotland, heeding our nation’s proud tradition as innovators.

“This round’s finalists are a real inspiration and it warms my heart to see the quality of entrepreneur that Scotland is producing.

“This is not just about money, however. All entrants, win or lose, receive support packages to help them on their way and come back again to EDGE when they are ready to do so.”

Sir Tom Hunter with Scottish EDGE finalists.