About

Martin Beaton is the Edinburgh Satellite Manager at EIT Digital, a €100m per year EU-supported funding organization that invests in co-funded industrial research, commercialization of innovative technology, and scaling of fast-growing companies across Europe. With a focus on Fintech and Cyber research in Scotland, Martin leads the Scottish node of EIT Digital and is involved in 'deep tech' investments in digital tech, digital wellbeing, digital cities, digital finance, and digital industry. Martin's role is to build EIT Digital's profile and activities in Scotland, supporting academia and industry to access funding for the growth of innovative digital companies through the annual call and creation of new IP through the creation of Doctoral Training Centers and Masters Programs in Scotland. His success is measured in both the increase of Doctoral training centers created (4 across Scotland) and innovation funding won on behalf of Digital startups (£5m+). Martin has over 13 years of relevant experience in economic development, cyber essentials, spin-outs, commercialization, cybersecurity, inward investment, exporting, subject matter expert, and consultant. He has previously worked with Skills Development Scotland as a Cyber Security Cluster Expert and with ScotlandIS as a Cyber Security Cluster Coordinator for Scotland. Martin's key strengths are industry relationship building, a highly developed academic network, and the ability to successfully win funding. He leads a small team of highly capable staff and works closely with the UK team to maximize opportunity and success for Scotland. The success of the office is closely followed by the Scottish Government from its opening by Innovation Minister Mr. McKee, with close support from Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Funding Council.