Deep Tech Supercluster Programme takes technologies from prototype to market
A new programme to help companies manufacture deep tech products as they take them from prototype to market has been launched by Scottish Enterprise and The National Robotarium.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes today (11 September) officially launched the Deep Tech Growth Programme at a showcase event at the Bayes Centre, University of Edinburgh.
Deputy First Minister of Scotland, Kate Forbes MSP with MD, Innovation and Investment at Scottish Enterprise, Jane Martin at the programme launch event, held at The Bayes Centre on 11 Sept 2025
The pilot programme is part of the wider Deep Tech Supercluster and was hailed as a major milestone in Scotland’s innovation journey.
Companies signing up will benefit from wrap-around support from Scottish Enterprise, the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), The National Robotarium, Smart Things Accelerator Centre (STAC), Highlands and Islands Enterprise, universities and the private sector.
According to the Royal Academy of Engineering’s State of UK Deep Tech report, the UK deep tech sector now attracts more than £5 billion in annual venture capital. Deep tech industries are defined as those with substantial scientific or engineering foundations — covering fields such as quantum technologies, photonics, advanced sensors, biotechnology, robotics, satellites and advanced materials.
Business Development Manager (The National Robotarium) Lisa Farrell will lead the pilot of the Deep Tech Growth programme
In Scotland, these capabilities underpin high-growth global markets such as subsea systems, medical technologies, and space.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Deeptech is a fundamental building block of many of the technologies we use in our everyday life – as well as many others that underpin the success of future industries. It represents a high-growth economic opportunity and, as such, it is vital that we harness the huge talent and innovation lying across Scotland’s technology sector.
“We want to see more companies forming, growing and manufacturing here in Scotland. By providing access to public and private support, this supercluster presents a step-change in how we foster deeptech companies and help them to succeed. I look forward to the pilot proving a real game-changer for a number of our most exciting companies, providing them with the right support and expertise at the right time to ensure that they succeed, grow and flourish.”
Managing Director of Innovation and Investment at Scottish Enterprise Jane Martin said: “This exciting collaboration will help companies to manufacture scalable products ultimately anchoring more high-growth firms in Scotland, creating jobs, boosting exports, and attracting investment.
“We want to work with some of Scotland’s most exciting growth prospects intensively to determine the most effective approaches to ensure they can scale here in Scotland, working with public and private partners along the way to create a really joined up system for growth.”
CEO of The National Robotarium Stewart Miller said: “The National Robotarium is proud to be a key delivery partner of the Deep Tech Supercluster Programme. This is a very exciting time for tech companies in Scotland; we have the talent, the skills and the entrepreneurial spirit to rapidly make truly innovative technologies that can improve people’s lives.
“Scotland has a long legacy of technological firsts and programmes like the Deep Tech Supercluster initiative will help to harness the wide range of expert support available to help these fledgling companies scale-up and, crucially, help Scotland retain their valued skills and innovative creations.”
Among the companies showcasing today was Novosound, which is developing thin-film ultrasound sensors for healthcare, subsea inspection, and industrial markets.
Director of Research and Development at Novosound Daniel Irving said: “Having gone through the journey of prototyping and productising deep tech concepts, with the invaluable support of Scottish Enterprise, it’s fantastic to see a dedicated programme now in place to back the next generation of Scottish deep tech start-ups. This kind of targeted support is exactly what’s needed to help innovation thrive.”
The Deep Tech Supercluster Programme is supported by partners including enterprise agencies, Scottish Government, The National Robotarium, Smart Things Accelerator Centre and the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland.
The pilot begins in November 2025 as a manufacturing pathway and will provide tailored support, investment readiness, access to manufacturing facilities, and partner expertise.
Get involved
There are two ways to get involved in the Deep Tech Growth Programme;
- As a deep tech company looking to scale: If you’re building a deep tech product with global potential – whether validating feasibility, preparing to scale manufacturing, or expanding into new markets – the programme will help you access the right partners, investment, and support to accelerate growth. Apply as a deep tech company.
- As a strategic partner: If you’re a technical, manufacturing, design or investment organisation, you can connect early with high-potential companies, shape projects, and unlock new commercial opportunities via the Partner Pool. Apply as a strategic partner.
Expressions of interest must be submitted to enquiries@scotent.co.uk by midday on 24 October 2025.
