Data-Driven Innovation – Let Data Drive You

Absolutely nothing! All courses offered through the Data-Driven Innovation (DDI) Skills Gateway are completely free for every student.

This means you can gain valuable digital skills, improve your career prospects, and help your organisation thrive—without worrying about fees. It’s an opportunity to invest in your future at zero cost.

Ready to start? Explore our courses and take the first step toward a brighter digital future today!

Our courses are designed for anyone looking to build digital skills and unlock new opportunities—whether you’re starting out, returning to education, or already working in industry.

They’re ideal for:

• Adult learners who want to gain new digital skills for personal or professional growth.
• Individuals considering further study to boost employability or explore a career change.
• Women returning to education who are interested in tech careers and want to overcome barriers created by gender inequality.
• Members of the Armed Forces transitioning from military to civilian life.
• Industry professionals who want to upskill, stay competitive, and improve future prospects for themselves and their organizations.

These courses are accessible, practical, and designed to help you future-proof your career and contribute to innovation in your workplace.

The digital data sector is at the heart of innovation and growth across every industry. From healthcare and finance to manufacturing and education, data-driven technologies are transforming how we live and work.

• High Demand for Skills: Businesses everywhere need professionals who can harness data to make smarter decisions and drive efficiency.
• Career Opportunities: Roles in data analytics, cybersecurity, AI, and digital transformation are among the fastest-growing and most rewarding.
• Future-Proof Your Career: Digital skills are no longer optional—they’re essential for staying competitive in today’s job market.
• Impact and Innovation: Working in this sector means shaping solutions that improve lives, empower communities, and create sustainable growth.
• Inclusive and Accessible: With initiatives like the Data-Driven Innovation Skills Gateway, opportunities are open to everyone—whether you’re starting out, returning to education, or upskilling in your current role.

The digital economy isn’t just the future—it’s happening now. Are you ready to be part of it?

The Edinburgh & South East Scotland City Region Deal is a major investment partnership between six local authorities, regional schools, universities, colleges, the private sector, and both the UK and Scottish Governments. Its goal is to boost productivity, drive economic growth, and tackle inequalities and deprivation across the region.

As part of this ambitious initiative, the Deal has launched an eight-year plan, investing £25 million in eight employability and skills projects. These projects aim to remove barriers faced by disadvantaged communities and help individuals develop the digital skills needed for Scotland’s growing tech economy.

The Data-Driven Innovation (DDI) Skills Gateway is one of these key projects. It focuses on helping people with a passion for digital technology—particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds—gain the skills to:

• Enhance employability
• Access progression pathways
• Build careers in Scotland’s thriving digital sector

Courses cover a range of subject areas, including finance, business, and sport, ensuring learners can apply digital skills across multiple industries.