Creative Industries Leadership Group minutes: September 2025

Attendees and apologies

• Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture
• Brian Coane, Leith Agency
• Stephano Faiella, Threesixty Architecture
• Jackie Donachie, Glasgow Sculpture Studios        
• Carol Sinclair, Sinclair Wilson
• Janice Kilpatrick, Graven
• Alex Smith, XPONorth Digital
• Ciorstaidh Monk, Fashion Interrupted
• Colin Anderson, Reforged Studios Ltd.
• Dougal Perman, Inner Ear UK
• Jenny Todd, The Literary Office
• Jane Muirhead, Raise the Roof Productions

Apologies

• Rachael Arnold, Creative Entrepreneurs' Club

Observers

• Isabel Davis, Screen Scotland

• David Smith, Screen Scotland

Items and actions

Opening Remarks

The Chair opened the meeting and welcomed attendees return. There was a moment to reflect on the resilience of the Creative Industries in the period since the group last convened. The Chair noted the group would now look ahead, particularly, to the challenges and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the sector.

The Cabinet Secretary noted his contentment at seeing the group reconvened. The Scottish Government published its International Culture Strategy in March 2024. Which focusses resolutely on sectoral development and the importance of international engagement to the ways in which the sector works, both in its business interests and in the cultural engagement and exchange of ideas that are fundamental to cultural innovation.

The Scottish Government recognises and appreciates the creativity and ingenuity of work the Creative Industries undertake.

Referencing the specific example of the publication of the UK Government Creative Industries Sector Plan in June,  the Cabinet Secretary noted the need for a greater level of respect between UK Government counterparts and those in the other Four Nations, whilst remaining pragmatic in the Scottish Government’s approach.

Presentation and discussion took place on how to support the growth of Scotland’s Creative Industries

An overview of the current state of the Creative Industries was presented which outlined the success and considerable economic impact of Scotland’s Creative Industries. The presentation centred the study of Glasgow as a hub for the Creative Industries. It was noted that the Creative industries can sometimes be considered as being in the deficit column of a balance sheet, considered a nice to have.

That current available data is not reflective of the scale and scope of the sector. A better understanding of the diversity of the sector is needed. The Creative Industries is growing and data will be required to further grow the sector: without it the sector is unsure what the future could look like. Without data organisations and practitioners within the sector cannot bid for funds nor develop strategically or plan effectively. It can be challenging to attract what may be needed without this information. The presentation posed the question as to what could be meant by growth.

The importance of the video games industry was raised. It was noted that an understanding of the games sector and it’s nuance is considered important for Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy implementation. The discussion raised the topic of whether games is categorised as screen or tech sector. Scottish Government will require people that focus on games as an industry and have an awareness of its complexities. On the Scotland Games action plan, it was noted that the games industry and Scottish Government should strive for alignment in what is trying to be achieved.

Members noted that stability, advocacy and space are required for a successful Creative Industries sector. It was emphasised that Creative Industries requires an educated work force across corresponding business areas such as tax and land reform.

It was noted that advocacy should encourage a better understanding of the Creative Industries especially the diversity of the sectors ambitions. For example, not all micro-businesses want to grow.

It was noted that the Creative Industries resilience is good but energy levels are low. When looking ahead to the next 10 years problems with available space, particularly in cities, alongside rent issues and lack of affordability need addressing.  More work could be done around procurement and financing to assist with these issues.

In terms of space, retail has not caught up with changes which has resulted in a lot of vacant spaces. It was suggested that music tourism development could likely assist with this issue. It was noted that this is also a challenging time for ticket buying audiences and consumers. 

There is a huge amount of work to do outside of cities in regard to innovation in rural areas with disparate networks. The app Smartify was cited for its positive work with independent museums in rural areas.

It was also noted that the fashion and textile industry is struggling with increased costs of doing business. With start-up costs noted as considerable due to a designer’s need for access to local space alongside digital access for international reach. This can result in micro-businesses sometimes falling through the gaps. Greater support is needed to develop new approaches to fashion.

In the Architectural sector, clients can see designers as service providers not creatives. Architecture is a competitive environment globally but architectural design in Scotland is innovative and can compete. In terms of issues raised around space, it was noted that speed is an issue and procurement and bureaucratic slowness make it challenging for projects to get off the ground in a prompt manner.

Following the presentation and membership discussion, key themes of advocacy and data were continually raised.

The Cabinet Secretary thanked members for their input on this agenda item and asked what could Scottish Government be doing more or less of in relation to the issues raised.

Challenges and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Scotland’s Creative Industries

A discussion on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI for the Creative Industries was undertaken by the members. There are distinct needs in the Creative Industries where AI can support. For example, within the sector, there are continual concerns raised over copyright and intellectual property.

Members noted there are threats and disadvantages post-covid and the strategic use of AI tools can be used to help overcome some of these challenges.

AI is a technological tool and issues with it are created through the way in which it is being developed and utilised by people. It was noted that some organisations already have good AI policies and practices in place. With some of the biggest concerns with AI considered to be solvable, for example security and data breaches. Copyright infringement and job displacement were cited as valid concerns. It was noted that clear leadership is required from Government, citing a further understanding of Scottish AI framework and understanding how it can be used to support projects.  

AI is currently being seen as a threat and better training is required, with Publishing Scotland referenced as an example as providing good training for employees on AI. It was noted that AI training should be made available for people at all organisational levels.

There is currently no convening power around design and architecture. Scotland has some incredible people who have been successful within these industries and we could better tell that story, perhaps through the GlobalScots platform. Utilising prominent and successful Scots that work in AI fields can help with industry learning at the sharp end of what AI can produce. This would also continue to tell the story about the exceptional people Scotland has produced.

It was noted that in June 2025 a new Scottish Technology Council was established to provide expert advice to the Minister for Business, advising on emerging technological trends with the greatest potential to drive economic growth, and identifying the sectors where Scotland holds a competitive advantage.

The Council fosters open dialogue and collaboration between industry, academia, and government. Its insights will help shape future policy, while members also serve as ambassadors for Scottish technology - promoting its strengths and opportunities on the international stage.

It was noted that the Scottish AI Alliance has a set of principles for ethical engagement with AI. Scottish Government welcome those CILG members with an interest in the AI framework to engage in the consultation process.

Members noted that speed and ability to move quickly is needed as growth in AI will come from established and already successful businesses. A concern was raised that too much academic input may hinder the pace at which opportunities can be harnessed. A balance between academic and commercial would be most beneficial approach.

Opportunities for the Creative Industries sector through the GlobalScots network

The GlobalScots network was established in 2021 with members that have a connection with Scotland and are motivated by altruism.

GlobalScots has a strict nomination and eligibility process. Members provide trading connections, insights, and access to networks.

Any company in Scotland can register for the GlobalScots database. Registration enables access to resources such as webinars, podcasts and a newsletter. Also allows for registered organisations  to search for assistance. If there are similar needs coming up at the same time GlobalScots secretariat will organise a session to network organisations and individuals to further engage on the issue or opportunity raised. 

There are currently 129 self-selecting Creative Industries companies and 143 individual registered via GlobalScots. It was noted there is space for the Creative Industries to grow and be further involved with GlobalScots.

Actions

• the membership was invited to a further presentation to understand more about the work and opportunities of Global Scots network
• the membership were invited to get involved in National Innovation Week 22nd – 26th September 2024: National Innovation Week
• CILG members with an interest will be invited into the Scottish Government’s AI framework discussion