Scotland’s leading business support festival is returning to Tayside this month to inspire local entrepreneurs and business owners.

Transform Business Festival, which is created and delivered by Business Gateway and Elevator in partnership with Tayside’s three local authorities, will take place at Dundee Science Centre on Wednesday 18 February.

The free event, which will be opened by Leader of Dundee City Council, Councillor Mark Flynn, aims to inspire, connect and transform entrepreneurs, start-ups and businesses of all sizes across the region.

This year’s festival will feature Dave Coplin, former Chief Envisioning Officer of Microsoft UK, as a keynote speaker. With more than 25 years in the technology industry, Coplin is at the forefront of conversations on AI, big data, digitalisation and emerging technologies. He will explore how business and individuals can combine “human plus machines” to achieve the best results.

Attendees will also get the chance to hear stories from local business owners, including Brechin-based entrepreneur Katrina Hutchinson-O’Neill, who founded recruitment company, Join Talent. Katrina is also CEO of Hatchwork Events, which runs Summer’s End Angus, which is set to be the second largest mainstream independent music festival in Scotland this year.

Attendees can also enjoy networking activities and one-to-one business advisory sessions, as well as the chance to meet key Tayside support partners.

Councillor Mark Flynn, Leader of Dundee City Council, said:

“I’m very much looking forward to opening this year’s Transform Business Festival. Dundee’s economy thrives on innovation, and small businesses are at its heart. This event is a great chance for business owners, both new and established, to connect, share ideas and inspire each other. By supporting entrepreneurship, we’re investing in the future of our city and community."

Elevator’s CEO, Rachel Ross, commented:

“Tayside has some brilliant businesses and entrepreneurs, and Transform is about bringing them together. We focus on practical support - helping businesses scale, build stronger networks and access the expertise they need. Events like this create the connections that drive real growth, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back."

Mandy McKenzie, Business Gateway Tayside Manager, said:

“We’re very pleased to be bringing the Transform Business Festival back to Dundee. It’s a fantastic opportunity for local business owners, or those thinking about starting a business, to gain fresh ideas, meet like-minded people, and discover the support available to help them grow and succeed.”