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Case Study

Tay Cities Digital Ecosystem Mapping

A comprehensive mapping and analysis of the Tay Cities digital tech ecosystem, identifying regional strengths, infrastructure gaps, and opportunities to drive future growth and innovation.

PROJECT BACKGROUND

This study involved comprehensively mapping the digital tech ecosystem within the Tay Cities region (Dundee, Perth & Kinross, Angus, North East Fife). Our primary goal was to identify and map the tech industry base and the support network that enables these businesses to thrive. Additionally, we were asked to create a detailed map of the region’s digital infrastructure and connectivity coverage. Through stakeholder engagement, we also sought to uncover the challenges and opportunities for growth, ensuring that the region is equipped to expand its digital tech sector.

This project was funded by a joint consortium of partners, covering Dundee, Perth & Kinross, Angus, and North East Fife.

AIMS & OBJECTIVES

Digital Ecosystem Map: Create a map that encompasses all digital companies, support assets (e.g., educational institutes, networks, events), and tech investors across the region
Infrastructure Map: Provide a clear visualisation of digital infrastructure coverage, highlighting areas of strength and gaps in both fixed fibre and mobile networks
Identify Growth Opportunities: Engage with key stakeholders to pinpoint the barriers and opportunities for the sector, informing the development of a regional digital tech roadmap

Digital Ecosystem Map: Create a map that encompasses all digital companies, support assets (e.g., educational institutes, networks, events), and tech investors across the region
Infrastructure Map: Provide a clear visualisation of digital infrastructure coverage, highlighting areas of strength and gaps in both fixed fibre and mobile networks
Identify Growth Opportunities: Engage with key stakeholders to pinpoint the barriers and opportunities for the sector, informing the development of a regional digital tech roadmap




OUR APPROACH

The project was delivered through a series of structured phases, beginning with comprehensive research and mapping of the regional digital tech ecosystem. This involved identifying qualifying companies, support networks, and digital infrastructure to establish a detailed baseline of activity.

We then engaged directly with the ecosystem through interviews and an online workshop involving tech businesses and support organisations. These discussions provided rich insights into local challenges, growth opportunities, and the dynamics shaping the sector.

Findings were consolidated through detailed analysis and presented via two key visual tools—an infographic mapping over 280 companies by sector and an interactive map showing digital connectivity across the region. The final report brought these insights together, offering clear, evidence-based recommendations to support the continued growth of the Tay Cities digital tech sector.

DELIVERY TEAM

Jordan Stodart
Senior Consultant
About>
Ashley Stewart
Director & Senior Consultant
About>
Iain Weir
Senior Consultant
About>

OUTPUTS AND IMPACTS

Ecosystem Mapping:

We identified over 280 companies within four primary sectors – Digital Design, Creation & Marketing; Infrastructure & Security; Sector-Specific Solutions; and Data Management & Advanced Technologies – across more than 20 sub-sectors, including Software/Web/App Development, Digital Marketing, MedTech, and a variety of others.

Connectivity Mapping:

Our interactive map highlighted strengths and gaps in fixed fibre and mobile coverage, providing a clear visual tool for stakeholders to address connectivity issues.

Click here for access: Tay Cities digital tech ecosystem Web Map

Stakeholder Engagement:

We engaged 36 stakeholders across various digital tech industries and locations across the Tay Cities region to gain insights into sectoral challenges, such as skills shortages, access to capital, and identifying the right support. However, we also uncovered numerous opportunities, including the development of an industry-backed vision and strategy, the creation of a central engagement platform, and the exploration of innovative connectivity solutions, such as low Earth orbit satellites.

This project has directly contributed to the creation of an actionable roadmap for the Tay Cities digital tech ecosystem. Our analysis and recommendations are already being used to shape future strategies, helping the region address both current and emerging challenges in the sector. The feedback and insights from stakeholders, combined with our detailed mapping, ensure that the Tay Cities is well-positioned for growth and innovation.

“The Optimat report highlights that there is an exciting pipeline of digital talent and innovation growing in Tayside which can scale further through the creation of a collaborative digital ecosystem with targeted support. Shining the spotlight on the region’s digital assets and creating new opportunities for its tech sector to grow are key ambitions of the project and we welcome those interested in collaborating to get in touch.” 

Sarah Forbes (Project Manager)
Scottish Enterprise

Jordan Stodart

Senior Consultant

I’m Jordan, a Senior Consultant at Optimat. I specialise in digital and data technologies, especially novel and emerging fields such as AI, IoT, immersive tech, and quantum computing. I support the development of high-growth, high-innovation sectors by delivering studies that make a meaningful impact and help shape industries now and in the future.

I’m very passionate about helping industries navigate change by identifying challenges, uncovering opportunities and designing strategies that address both. This often involves leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency, productivity and competitiveness.

In recent years, I’ve built a strong understanding of the innovation landscape by mapping sector ecosystems, assessing R&D funding bids, contributing to European RD&I consortia, and ultimately delivering a wide range of sector studies in key growth sectors such as digital/data, low carbon and net zero, high value manufacturing, the built environment, and more.

Before joining Optimat, I co-founded a digital tech start-up, an experience that grounded me in the everyday realities of running a business. That perspective has been especially useful in an employee-owned company like Optimat, where everyone helps shape the direction of the business.

I hold an MA (Hons) English Literature and an MLitt (Masters) degree from the University of Glasgow, where I mentor students on the MSc FinTech programme. I also support Scotland’s future entrepreneurs through Young Enterprise’s Company Connect programme where I also provide mentorship.

Dr Ashley Stewart

Director & Senior Consultant

I’m Ashley, a Director and Senior Consultant at Optimat. I specialise in digital and data technologies, from AI and Automation to Space, Immersive and Geospatial, helping to advance Scotland’s wider enabling technologies.  I support the growth of high-innovation sectors where Scotland has the potential to lead globally.

For over 15 years at Optimat, I’ve helped industries, organisations and governments use digital and emerging technologies to unlock growth and sharpen their competitiveness. Recent work has focused on AI, building a clearer picture of Scotland’s capabilities and adoption opportunities, and on Space, where I’ve delivered insights that shape strategies for industry growth, Net Zero pathways and new infrastructure, such as spaceports. Across the full breadth of digital and emerging technologies, my role is about turning evidence into action and ensuring Scotland stays globally competitive as technologies and industries evolve.

Another core area of expertise is cluster development and strategy. I established, and now lead, Location Data Scotland, building it from the ground up into a vibrant geospatial community. Beyond geospatial, I’ve developed roadmaps and action plans across digital technologies, advanced manufacturing and materials, and aerospace. This combines market and technology analysis with stakeholder engagement to map assets, identify opportunities and design interventions that support innovation and competitiveness.

Before joining Optimat, I worked as a Research Technologist in academia, gaining insight into how technologies move from research to real-world application. That experience, combined with two decades in consultancy, enables me to bridge research, policy and industry to help clients make smarter, evidence-based decisions. I hold a BA in Marketing, an MSc in IT & Web Development, and a PhD in Technology Enhanced Learning & Communities of Practice.

Iain Weir

Senior Consultant

I’m Iain Weir, formerly Managing Director of Optimat.  I joined Optimat in 1990 and now have over 35 years’ experience of strategy, innovation and economic development consultancy. I am now working part-time as a senior consultant as a stepping stone to retirement in the future.

During my time at Optimat, I’ve worked to support company growth, innovation and economic development across a range of sectors, and I enjoy working with clients to turn data and insight into meaningful action.  I’m proud to have had an integral role over that time in developing Optimat into an internationally recognised strategy consultancy.

One of my key areas of expertise is the development of the low carbon economy, a topic of increasing importance for today’s industries.  I think this is a challenging area for industry and the public sector to address as there can be several solutions offered to reduce carbon impacts, often without a strong evidence base to support their use. I enjoy pursuing an evidence-based analyses of these options to provide valuable insights to stakeholders.

Before joining Optimat, I worked in research and development in the electro-optic materials sector, developing and marketing innovative high-tech materials for a range of applications.  This industrial experience has strongly influenced my approach to assisting companies with their innovation activities.

I hold a BSc (1st class Hons) in Chemistry, a PhD in Chemistry, and an MBA.  I think this strong scientific background has enabled me to pursue an evidence-based and analytical approach to consultancy.