Scottish Enterprise — Scotland’s national economic development agency — said on Monday it helped Scottish businesses generate £2.15 billion in exports last year “despite the challenging global economic environment.”
Scottish Enterprise said its other notable results in the past year included:
- More than £1 billion in business capital expenditure, supporting investment in facilities, equipment and future growth
- Over 12,450 new and safeguarded Real Living Wage jobs, including almost 5,000 higher-paid roles
- £348 million in growth funding leveraged by Scottish businesses
- £355 million in innovation investment, helping businesses develop and commercialise new technologies
“The result represents one of Scotland’s strongest international trade performances of the past five years and reinforces Scotland’s global competitiveness,” said Scottish Enterprise.
The findings are included in Scottish Enterprise’s 2025-26 annual report.
“Together, the results demonstrate the impact Scotland’s national economic development agency is having on Scotland’s economy,” said the agency.
“The agency’s targeted support helps businesses to innovate, secure investment, increase international exports and accelerate the transition to net zero. It remains committed to supporting those opportunities that will deliver greatest economic impact for Scotland.
“During 2025-26, Scottish Enterprise achieved or exceeded target ranges across most of its key performance measures, helping businesses access the expertise, investment and connections needed to realise their growth ambitions, while bringing together partners across Scotland’s economic development landscape to unlock opportunities for growth.”
Scottish Enterprise CEO Adrian Gillespie said: “Scottish Enterprise has delivered another strong performance, meeting key targets by drawing on established strengths in internationalisation, innovation and investment and creating significant economic impact for Scotland.
“We’re delivering regionally, nationally and internationally for Scotland’s economy.
“Companies across Scotland continue to show ambition, innovation and resilience, and are expanding into international markets, developing new technologies, creating high-quality jobs and securing investment that will create future growth.”