Tech ecosystem builder CodeBase has joined forces with The Open University in Scotland “to accelerate co-learning opportunities, including co-creation of educational content, and drive startup and entrepreneurial activity.”

As part of the tie-up, distance learning pioneer The Open University, one of the UK’s largest universities and the largest provider of flexible part-time undergraduate higher education in Scotland, will partner with CodeBase’s Techscaler initiative, the Scottish Government’s tech startup support programme run by CodeBase.

Through the use of open learning, the partnership will make content and learning accessible at any time, while there will also be a focus on diversity and inclusion.

CodeBase runs multiple programmes throughout the UK including the UK Government-funded LawtechUK, EnergyTech Bridge with Opportunity North East, and Industry Bridge with Barclays Eagle Labs.

The Scottish Government-funded Techscaler programme run by CodeBase was launched in 2022, and in 2023 it numbered over 2,500 members and companies who raised over £50 million in investment.

Techscaler helps members through education, mentorship, community, and workspaces, and was set up to deliver on key priorities outlined in the Scottish Tech Ecosystem Review (STER), and in the National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET), to strengthen the country’s tech sector and encourage entrepreneurship.

Jane Grant, Depute Director, External Engagement and Partnerships at The Open University in Scotland, said: “We are absolutely delighted to join forces with CodeBase – this partnership demonstrates our strong commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Scotland by adding unique expertise and collaboration to our existing offer of courses and programmes such as the Open Business Creator Fund. Having access to the Techscaler initiative will open up exciting opportunities for our learners and the wider community and notably support our nation’s next generation of entrepreneurs.”

Yasmin Sulaiman, Senior Vice President Ecosystems at CodeBase, said: “We are excited to team up with The Open University around world-class learning and innovation, and ultimately to drive entrepreneurial and startup activity.  Importantly, we also share the OU’s ethos around opportunities for all irrespective of background or geography.”