Plans to ensure Ayrshire is a leading digital economy are secure following the signing of a commitment which will sustain the future of the Ayrshire Digital Economy Ecosystem (ADEE).

ADEE, an initiative driving digital innovation and connectivity, 5G technology, skills development and economic growth across Ayrshire, will continue to at least 2030 following a multi-partner Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The framework provides strategic direction and governance to support ambitions set out in the Ayrshire Regional Economic Strategy, which highlights the need for a strong, sustainable and inclusive digital economy in enhancing Ayrshire’s future.

The MOU has been signed by the three Ayrshire councils, University of the West of Scotland, Ayrshire College, the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland and VodafoneThree, who will continue to play a central role in supporting innovation, collaboration and digital education across Ayrshire.

ADEE was established to bolster the region’s long-term growth ambitions by bringing together local authorities, academic institutions, industry bodies and private sector stakeholders in a collaborative ‘triple helix’ approach, fostering a culture of digital knowledge sharing, skills development and adoption.

The work underpins the wider Ayrshire Growth Deal, which aims to position the region as a leading regional digital economy, with long-term plans to attract new businesses, support existing companies to expand, create more jobs and bring new opportunities to the area.

Speaking on the ADEE MOU signing, UWS’s Digital Connectivity and Innovation Centre Director, Professor Muhammad Zeeshan Shakir said: “The benefits of digital innovation and investment within communities is far reaching, and the signing of this MOU demonstrates our dedication to future-proofing Ayrshire for the digital age, through the power of effective long-term collaboration.

“This commitment will sustain our efforts to create a digital ecosystem in Ayrshire - strengthening infrastructure, enhancing digital skills, and helping businesses harness cutting-edge technologies for long term economic growth.”

Professor Muhammad Zeeshan Shakir

Councillor Tony Gurney, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, said: “We are delighted with the progress made in recent years and Ayrshire is already making a name for itself through our growing 5G capability and the strength of our wider digital economy.

 “We work together and collaborate regionally in Ayrshire and our Ayrshire Digital Economy Ecosystem is driving innovation, upskilling businesses and supporting further investment into the region.

“We are excited about what lies ahead and Ayrshire is in an extremely strong position to take advantage of the rapid expansion and development of AI. The foundations are firmly in place and it’s great that we have partners across the region who share our ambitions.”

Councillor Tony Gurney, Leader of North Ayrshire Council