Scottish National Investment Bank: review of performance 2026

Awareness, relationships and partnerships

88. Most representatives of other public sector bodies and other finance institutions reported positive contact with the Bank, although some felt that communication and information-sharing could perhaps be more structured and more frequent.

89. It was suggested to me by a number of external sources that there was a continuing lack of clarity about the respective roles of the Bank and Scottish Enterprise in relation to support for early-stage and scaling companies in particular - an area where both organisations are active. It was put to me that this might cause confusion in the marketplace, with the potential for missed opportunities for a joined-up strategic approach between the two bodies: although I also heard of positive working-level collaboration between them.

90. Against the backdrop of broader public debate around public sector reform, I think that the Scottish Government should take forward discussion between the two organisations to review the current position; agree any necessary action; and ensure that the outcome is communicated widely.