Robert Gordon University (RGU) is to host Exchange Aberdeen, a Culture Aberdeen event that will bring together key stakeholders from across the region to explore shared ambitions, drive economic growth, and foster cross-sector collaboration.
Exchange Aberdeen will explore how the North East region can be strengthened as a hub for innovation and investment, highlighting opportunities for collaboration between culture, business, academia, and local government.
The event, taking place on Monday 24 March, has been commissioned by Aberdeen City Council as part of its UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) Local Business Support Programme and is being delivered by Culture Aberdeen. Supported through £6,000 in UK Government funding, the event will serve as a platform for discussions on the cultural and economic future of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Discussions will focus on defining and celebrating Aberdeenshire’s cultural identity, unlocking investment, and fostering innovation to build a stronger, more sustainable economy. It will also consider how cross-sector partnerships can address regional challenges, from technological advancements supporting sustainable growth to community-led initiatives tackling social issues and fostering inclusivity.
A diverse panel of speakers will lead thought-provoking discussions, providing attendees with the opportunity to contribute their insights, engage with key stakeholders, and help shape a shared vision for the role of culture in the region’s future.
Panellist and University Secretary and Vice Principal Corporate Services at RGU, Veronice Strachan, said: “Exchange Aberdeen is a unique opportunity to engage and shape the cultural and economic development of the region and I am excited to be a part of it.
“RGU makes an important contribution to the region’s cultural development through initiatives like our Mobile Art School, and our strength in entrepreneurship and research, as well as our community events including our annual degree shows and the work of Look Again at Gray’s. It is fitting that Exchange Aberdeen is hosted here, at RGU, in our 140th anniversary of Gray’s School of Art.”
Ben Torrie, Co-Chair of Culture Aberdeen, said: "Exchange Aberdeen comes at a pivotal time as Culture Aberdeen evolves into a new legal structure, strengthening our ability to support and advocate for the cultural sector.
“This event will bring together key voices to explore new ways of working, build strategic partnerships, and drive meaningful change. As we transition into a new operational model, our focus remains on ensuring that culture plays a central role in shaping the region’s future, fostering sustainable growth, and creating opportunities for collaboration across industries.
“By uniting representatives from business, academia, government, and the creative sector, Exchange Aberdeen will encourage forward-thinking dialogue and establish new pathways for cultural and economic development. This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the North East region's strengths, while working towards a more resilient, innovative, and creative future."
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesman, said: “Partnership working is right at the heart of the Council’s approach to culture. We have commissioned the Culture Aberdeen event in order to develop and strengthen the positive cooperation with the local arts community.
“We will consider how we can work together more to maximise the role of culture in Aberdeen. It enhances economic impacts and improves health and wellbeing. We already offer some of Scotland’s most loved artistic activities and events and we should continue to collaborate for the benefit of all the people and audiences who we serve."
The event will conclude with reflections from the audience, followed by a closing discussion on next steps. The day will end with a networking drinks reception, offering a space for members of the cultural sector, stakeholders, partners, and funders to connect and continue discussions informally.
Exchange Aberdeen represents a key step towards strengthening partnerships and positioning Aberdeen as a thriving, forward-thinking region. By bringing together leaders from across sectors, the event aims to inspire collaboration and drive meaningful progress across the city and beyond.
The event will take place at 10:00AM to 5:30PM on Monday 24 March 2025 in the front atrium of the Sir Ian Wood Building at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen.
Tickets and further details can be found here.