University backs plans for local economic growth

Higher and further education institutions across Edinburgh and South East Scotland have signed a pledge to help build community wealth.

Image of Ellen Munro from Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal sitting with Peter Mathieson as he signs a Community Wealth Building Pledge

The pledge commits each institution to take action and make decisions that support local economic growth and sustainable development.

As Chair of Edinburgh and South East Scotland’s Higher Education/Further Education Strategy Group, University of Edinburgh’s Principal, Professor Sir Peter Mathieson signed the pledge on behalf of the region’s universities and colleges.

Local impact

The pledge was created by the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal in 2022 following work with the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) to explore community wealth building within its projects.

It asks each university and college to support the growth and development of local businesses; support fair employment practises; and engage with community-based organisations and projects to build resilience and long-term security within the region. 

Each commitment aims to prioritise actions that ultimately ensure that money that’s made by local businesses and projects stays local.

Empowering communities

Signing the pledge reaffirms the University‘s own plans to deliver positive change for local people.

Social and civic responsibility is one of the four key focuses of the University’s vision up to 2030 and outlines the ways it can leverage its own resources to support those in its community.

Steps the University has taken to deliver on its promises include the launch of a new procurement strategy to support sustainable and inclusive growth.

This will integrate practices that maximise community and economic development, advocate for fair working conditions and actively support small and local businesses in accessing contracting opportunities.

Other areas of focus include a £8m Socially Positive Investment fund – including a £1m investment providing accommodation for up to 30 homeless people in the city – and a renewed commitment to the Scottish Government’s Young Person’s Guarantee.

“Over the past six years, the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal has delivered some incredible results with new jobs, skills and opportunities benefitting thousands of people. By signing this Community Wealth Building pledge, universities and colleges in the region are collectively harnessing their influence to drive change to better serve the communities we are a part of.” 

“We are thrilled to see our universities and colleges come together to commit to the Community Wealth Building Pledge. This commitment highlights the ability of our anchor institutions to drive inclusive growth, contributing to resilient local economies and sustainable development across our region. By uniting around this pledge, we are accelerating growth in a way that uplifts communities, nurtures local talent, and invests in the success of every resident. This is not only a positive step for the region’s economy but a vital step toward a more prosperous, equitable future for all.”

Tags

2025