Innovating Nation Conference

Innovation in Scotland faced its challenges head on from 21 to 23 February 2007 when all who share an interest in innovation (and could attend) came together to hear about the key issues and the challenges faced in Innovating in Scotland with practical examples from projects supported by the Scottish Innovative Actions Programme.

For those that attended and those that could not, here is some information about the day:

Day 2 - 22 February: Open Space - Space to Talk
A wide cross-section of people involved in innovation throughout Scotland met to take part in a facilitated Open Space event. This was the first time that innovation networks have been brought together in Scotland.

Open Space was created in 1985 and has been used in 128 countries to bring people together to discuss a common theme without any clear answers. All participants have an equal voice and no advance preparation is required. Open Space is fully participatory, there are no talking heads, and believes that participants are the real experts. All you need to do is arrive with an open mind and the burning issues you want to see resolved around the future of innovation in Scotland.

Starting with the key issues from the first day, innovation networks were brought together for the first time in Scotland in a unique format to discuss the key questions facing innovation in Scotland and to take action. Participants discussed:

• where is innovation going in Scotland
• how can innovation be stimulated and commercialised
• what are the drivers needed to make innovation happen
• who can fund innovation and what additional support will be required
• what are the hurdles to overcome

The Open Space event developed themes from the participants - Download the Open Space - Innovating Scotland Report (PDF 22kB).