Anyone can join this free regional event
Businesses, entrepreneurs, creators and residents across Aberdeenshire are invited to a landmark event as the Enterprising North programme concludes with a comprehensive AI Celebration, Showcase and Learning Event on Thursday 11 December 2025, taking place from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at ONE Tech Hub, Schoolhill, Aberdeen. The event is free and open to everyone, whether or not they attended previous workshops.
The celebration follows a successful series of grassroots AI workshops delivered across Aberdeenshire, including sessions recently held in Turriff, Inverurie, Huntly, Peterhead, Fraserburgh and Stonehaven. The programme, funded by the Scottish Government through the Ecosystem Fund, aims to equip local people and small businesses with practical digital tools, confidence and support to explore opportunities in artificial intelligence.
A Full Day of Learning, Innovation and Community Support
The Aberdeen event will bring together founders, early-stage entrepreneurs, digital technology experts and regional support organisations for a high-energy day of practical learning and open conversations about the role of AI in business, community projects and local development. Anyone with an interest in learning or exploring AI is welcome to attend.
Attendees can expect:
Fireside Chat: Behind the Build
A candid discussion with startup founders who are actively using AI to develop products and services. Speakers will share real insights into experimentation, pivots, lessons learned and the realities of building with new technologies.
Pitch Training with Industry Leader Bob Keiller
Participants will receive expert pitch coaching focused on clarity, confidence and storytelling. Following the session, five attendees will be selected to pitch their ideas live, receiving personalised feedback and competing for a prize awarded to the strongest pitch.
Practical AI Basics Workshop
Led by Geoff Todd and Rene Looper, this hands-on workshop will introduce beginners to AI in an accessible and engaging way. The session covers prompt-writing, simple automations and everyday AI workflows designed to enhance productivity and support early idea development. No technical background is required. This workshop is suitable for complete beginners.
Funding Insights from Scottish EDGE and Early-Stage Funders
Representatives from Scotland’s leading funders will provide practical guidance on securing funding, positioning ideas effectively and understanding what investors and grant providers look for in new ventures.
Meet the Ecosystem
Participants will have the opportunity to connect with some of the region’s key entrepreneurial support organisations, including:
- Barclays Eagle Labs
- Techscaler
- Opportunity North East Digital Tech
- Business Gateway Aberdeen City & Shire
- Enterprising Aberdeenshire
- Aberdeenshire Council
This session will help attendees map out clear next steps for their business or idea, and highlight the range of ongoing support available across the region.
Networking Opportunities
The event concludes with extended networking, giving attendees a chance to build relationships with founders, mentors, funders and peers. The networking session aims to spark collaboration, encourage new ideas and strengthen connections across Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen.
Practical Information
Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided on arrival, with lunch served later in the day. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop to fully participate in the interactive sessions.
Eligible participants travelling from Aberdeenshire will be able to claim travel reimbursement by presenting their travel receipts or tickets.
Registration
Attendance is free and open to the public, but spaces are limited. Anyone interested can register through the following link:
https://www.startupgrind.com/events/details/startup-grind-aberdeen-presents-enterprising-north-empowering-grassroots-businesses-and-ideas-with-ai/
A Celebration of Local Innovation
The event marks the final milestone of the Enterprising North programme, celebrating the creativity, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of communities across Aberdeenshire. It also serves as a launchpad for participants to continue developing their skills, ideas and networks beyond the programme.
For more information or inquiries, please contact Startup Grind Aberdeen.
