Aberdeen City Region Deal (ACRD) launches initiative to support bold, technology-led projects across region.
Businesses, public sector organisations, research institutions, non-profits and community groups have until 9am on Monday, March 23, 2026 to apply to Aberdeen’s Digital Challenge Fund, which has been established to drive innovation.
Photo of Aberdeen Harbour by Julie Adams / Unsplash
The fund aims to provide capital investment for much-needed technology initiatives across the Aberdeen city region including increased broadband coverage (especially in rural and underserved areas), improved digital skills in the workforce and wider community, digital delivery of public services, enhanced data and digital infrastructure (such as data centres and AI platforms, and digital innovation and connectivity.
For the application form and additional guidance, see the ACRD Digital Challenge Fund page on the Invest Aberdeen website.
Successful applicants will be announced on Friday May 15, with successful projects due to start on June 15.
The ACRD is an agreement between the UK and Scottish governments to accelerate sustainable economic growth, nurture new industries and strengthen the region’s standing as a hub of digital excellence. This is being delivered through a partnership of Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council and Opportunity North East (ONE).
Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Business and Employment, says: ‘The Aberdeen City Region Deal, supported by £125m of Scottish government investment, continues to drive new economic opportunities across the north‑east of Scotland. In a world where digital products and services play an increasingly essential role in our economy, the Digital Challenge Fund reflects the region’s ambition to drive further innovation and create new opportunities for communities and businesses. I urge all interested companies and organisations in the area to find out more about the fund and consider how it could benefit them.’
Cllr Anne Stirling, Chair of the ACRD Joint Committee, adds: ‘As we near the end of our City Region Deal, it is exciting to be in a position to offer an opportunity such as this, creating a legacy in digital innovation. We are keen to champion digital projects in all forms and I am sure there are a lot of exciting areas of work which could benefit from being accelerated by this fund. I encourage organisations large and small to engage with this opportunity and help accelerate our digital reach.’
Cllr Ian Yuill, Vice Chair of the ACRD Joint Committee, says: ‘Our region is ready to lead when it comes to digital innovation – this challenge fund is a major step in making that vision a reality. By investing in projects that embrace emerging technologies, we are building a smarter, more inclusive future for all residents and businesses across our region. I’m excited to see the creative and impactful initiatives that come forward.’
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