A major new initiative designed to channel global capital into Scotland’s eight cities and their surrounding regions has been officially launched.

The Scotland Investment Acceleration Programme was unveiled on Tuesday 20 January by Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill during an event marking the start of Scottish Cities Week 2026.

The programme is a strategic collaboration between the UK Government, TheCityUK, and the Scottish Cities Alliance (SCA). It aims to equip local authorities with the technical expertise, market intelligence, and structured support necessary to attract international inward investment and compete on a global scale.

A Framework for Growth Running throughout 2026, the programme will feature a series of workshops, webinars, and technical sessions. These are designed to help city leaders refine investment propositions, understand investor expectations, and navigate project assessment criteria. The initiative kicked off with a high-level roundtable in London, attended by major financial institutions including Barclays, Aviva, Blackrock, and the Phoenix Group.

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During the launch, Minister McNeill emphasised the alignment of this programme with the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy—a 10-year plan focused on streamlining business investment in high-growth sectors.

Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said: "Scotland’s cities and regions hold immense potential for inward investment: We have the talent, the ingenuity, and the resources. This is about building a competitive advantage for Scotland, ensuring our regions and communities are ready to secure the vital capital that drives growth and creates jobs. Together, we will enhance capability, attract investment, and accelerate growth for the benefit of all of Scotland."

Cllr Raymond Bremner, Chair of the Scottish Cities Alliance and Leader of Highland Council, added: "Scottish Cities Alliance is proud to support the Scotland Investment Acceleration Programme. Building capability and fostering collaboration between governments, investors, and our Scottish city partners is essential to unlocking transformative investment. Through initiatives like Scottish Cities Week London, we champion inclusive, sustainable growth and showcase Scotland’s strengths to ensure our cities thrive in a competitive global economy."

Industry Perspective The financial and professional services sector is seen as a primary engine for this growth. Miles Celic OBE, Chief Executive Officer of TheCityUK, noted: "Scotland’s world-class financial and professional services are key drivers of growth and innovation. We are excited to team up with our public sector partners to boost investment and enhance collaboration between industry and government. This partnership will unlock new opportunities, create high-value jobs, and ensure Scotland remains at the forefront of the UK’s international competitiveness."

The event also highlighted existing funding streams supporting Scottish infrastructure and communities, including the £140 million Local Growth Fund and the £280 million Pride in Place Programme, which focuses on improvements in Scotland’s most deprived areas.