Tay Cities Digital Region

The Tay Cities Region – which encompasses Dundee, Angus, Perth & Kinross and Fife – has emerged as a thriving hub for innovation, digital technology, and economic growth and benefits from a rich industrial heritage, highly skilled workforce, and access to world-class academic institutions. With strong government and private sector backing, the Tay Cities Deal aims to further stimulate the region’s economy, creating jobs, boosting investment, and fostering technological development across various sectors.

One of the standout qualities of the region is its diverse range of digital tech businesses that have made an impact on an international stage. Dundee is renowned for its association with the video games sector, with famous franchises such as Grand Theft Auto (Rockstar North/DMA Design), Bloons (Ninja Kiwi) and Minecraft (4J Studio) tied to the area, and Abertay University hosting the world’s first degree in game design. To this day, it is a hub for studios of all sizes to develop new and innovative gaming ideas.

The region excels in a multitude of areas, ranging from financial technology, app development, life sciences, and medical technology. It proudly hosts a diverse portfolio of businesses, from startups (e.g. Afterfire Studios Ltd, Swetrix, and 532 Design Ltd) and SMEs (e.g. Zudu, Waracle, and Miconex) through to renowned global brands (e.g. SSE, NCR, and Aviva). This vibrant ecosystem is complemented by several research institutions and computing schools associated with our other academic institutions like the Universities of Dundee and St. Andrews, UHI and Dundee & Angus College.

Moreover, the renewable energy sector has seen significant growth in this region, with a focus on developing sustainable solutions for future energy needs, harnessing digital technology. Perth, in particular, has been at the forefront of renewable energy developments, with key projects in wind, solar, and hydro energy production and Angus has a heritage in supporting manufacturing and the oil sector.

The region boasts excellent transport connections to the rest of the UK and has been actively enhancing world-class connectivity with investments in fibre and data centres. It’s always close to the countryside, with an affordable housing market and a highly esteemed quality of life. Unlike some major cities, there’s no frantic rush hour or lengthy commutes, and nature, a round of golf, or a five star cultural location is never too far away.