Ten key projects developed with members which are critical to the success and future growth
of the Glasgow City Region economy
A £160 million, 10-year programme designed to accelerate the Region’s innovation economy - focusing on established strengths and key emerging sectors. The initiative is further supported through the Innovation Accelerator Programme, Local Innovation Partnership funding, and collaboration with the National Wealth Fund.
Glasgow’s 30-year economic transformation has been driven by the success of its city centre, but this was badly damaged by the pandemic. The city centre is experiencing year on year improvements in key metrics, however we need to continue momentum. Glasgow Chamber of Commerce co-chairs the Glasgow City Centre Taskforce which is driving activity and is supporting the delivery of the Let’s Go Glasgow city centre Business Improvement District.
Glasgow Airport continues to strengthen regional and international connectivity, with the reinstatement of direct flights to New York and new European routes. Under new ownership, a significant investment programme is enhancing the passenger experience and terminal infrastructure. Ongoing support for connectivity improvements remains vital to the Region’s competitiveness.
Celebrating four decades as a global events powerhouse, the SEC continues to play a key role in the city, contributing almost £470m expenditure in Glasgow and as a host venue for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games. The new leadership team are advancing plans for Phase 2 expansion to increase capacity and to continue to attract world-class conferences and entertainment.
A transformative transport solution designed to connect Glasgow’s key assets and improve regional mobility. Led by SPT, the project is progressing through its outline business case and has been recognised by the National Wealth Fund as a project of interest.
Glasgow’s Green Investment Prospectus integrates sustainability with economic growth, championing projects like Clyde Metro and Innovation Districts alongside Circular Glasgow initiatives. The priority is securing funding packages for these proposals amid economic headwinds, ensuring Glasgow remains a leader in climate investment and the circular economy.
A targeted campaign emerging from the Glasgow City Region Devolution proposal and focused on addressing critical skills gaps through employment programmes, targeted sectoral interventions and industry-aligned education and training. We need to ensure our colleges and universities are sustainably funded to deliver the skills needed for future growth.
Maritime industries remain a profoundly important part of Glasgow’s economy – ranging from BAE Systems building the next generation of ships, nautical training at the Riverside Campus or the continued scale of Glasgow’s role as Europe’s largest centre for ship management. Following a study commissioned by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, funding has been secured to help develop the pipeline of skills and talent needed for future growth.
The Glasgow City Innovation District, Glasgow Riverside Innovation District, and Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District together represent a powerful platform for future industry growth. These hubs enable breakthroughs in engineering technologies, artificial intelligence, precision medicine, nanofabrication, and advanced manufacturing. Glasgow Chamber supports the Region’s innovation ecosystem and emerging institutional partnerships.
A refreshed, compelling narrative to amplify Glasgow’s global profile, attract new investment, and highlight the city’s economic strengths. The creation of a new Destination Marketing & Management Organisation (DMMO) will be central to driving this vision forward.
