Global Impact
Edinburgh is a place of global influence, has
a culture of innovation, a diverse economy and is world - thinking
since ‘the Enlightenment’( 1740-1830). Some of the world's
most influential people, past and present, helped establish
Edinburgh City Region's international reputation for excellence
across a range of disciplines.
Edinburgh remains an ambitious, thriving business-orientated
city region with unprecedented investment and ongoing innovation –
a long-held tradition in the city.
History of Innovation
Edinburgh city region has a long history of innovation from the
discovery of the anaesthetic properties of chloroform to more
recent high-profile innovations such as the cloning of Dolly the
Sheep and the creation of the first genetically engineered vaccine
for Hepatitis B.
The founding of The University of Edinburgh in 1582 attracted
some of the world's greatest thinkers to Edinburgh and played a key
role in establishing the city region's international reputation for
science and technology.
Quality of research
Scotland has a proud history of scientific research and
development and Edinburgh retains a strong international profile
and impressive track record in many established sectors. The
city has a strong competitive advantage in new and emerging
technologies and biotechnology has experienced rapid annual
growth of around 28% against a European average of 15%.
Diverse economy
Scotland’s diverse economy ensures that no one
sector dominates. Together, new technology, financial and business
services, tourism, education and health account for 70% of
Scotland’s gross domestic product.
It is telling that Scotland leads the world in
some of those sectors, which are considered the most important to
the 21st century global economy. In fact, recent independent
research by Evidence, the research impact consultancy, found that
Scottish scientists lead the world in key scientific areas.
Finance
Scotland's distinguished history in financial
services dates back more than 300 years and has deep roots in
Edinburgh City Region. Overdrafts, cheque books, mortgages,
coloured bank notes, internet banking and many other financial
world firsts were all born here.
Edinburgh is also home to the world's first
professional body of accountants and the world's first banking
institute.
Tourism
Edinburgh is a destination of choice for leisure visitors and
conventions. An award winning capital city with numerous 'Best
City' accoldaes and many awards for its environment, economy,
innovation and architecture.
A living past,
exceptional urban amenities and a cultured, contemporary world
view, shape Edinburgh city region. Edinburgh is a UNESCO
World Heritage site, boasting stunning architecture and one of the
most beautiful cityscapes in the world - famous for Edinburgh
Castle, the Old Town steeped in centuries of history and the
elegance of the New Town’s Georgian architecture. Festivals
throughout the year keep the city vibrant and bustlin, offering
something for everyone .
