A business “incubator” at Dundee and Angus College has been helping to tackle a skills shortage in the science and technologies industries.
On a visit on Tuesday, youth employment minister Annabelle Ewing said the pioneering business support centre offers “incredible opportunities”.
She heard how the college is leading the way in creating a skilled workforce for Scotland’s digital industries and its success in using bespoke programmes in micro-renewables, biofuel and the oil service sector.
It provides tailored programmes to meet industry need and address skills shortages in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) sectors, including the creative and digital industries.
Ms Ewing MSP said: “The ICT and digital skills industries are worth around £4.5 billion annually to our economy, with more than 84,000 people employed in jobs connected to it in 2014 alone.
“This poses incredible opportunities for students and Dundee and Angus College has been among the first to use this knowledge to create better opportunities for its graduates and build links with the sector.”
The centre promotes start-up businesses, both student and private, and already has 13 ventures but there is still space for two more.
The minister met Sandra Cormack and Razwana Yousaf, who have launched start-up businesses from the college’s £1.6 million Enterprise Incubator. There they have access to support, networking and facilities.
Ms Cormack is a make-up artist who works with bridal parties as well as on commercial and editorial photographic shoots in film, theatre, television and the music industry. She launched her company SC Makeup Artistry in 2009.
Ms Yousaf started Shaadi Baji Ltd as a modern, international introduction service for single Muslims, using the incubator for support.
Dundee and Angus College principal Grant Ritchie said: “Skills in energy and engineering along with digital skills are critical in ensuring our young people are resourceful and independent and are prepared for the modern workplace.
“We are also aware of the need to encourage enterprise and contribute to the growing numbers of new businesses in our area.
“Our enterprise facility has been a real success and we look forward to helping develop many new companies in future.”