Scotland must become the best place in the world to start and grow a business, First Minister John Swinney will tell more than 500 business leaders gathered in Glasgow today.

Speaking at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Annual Business Address on Thursday 5 November 2026, Mr Swinney will set out his ambition to build a stronger economy through closer cooperation between government and the businesses that create jobs and investment.

The event brings together some of Scotland’s leading employers, entrepreneurs and decision makers at a time when businesses face rising costs, skills shortages and growing international competition.

The First Minister will argue that Scotland has the talent, resources and international connections needed to compete successfully, but must do more to turn those advantages into lasting economic growth.

Following his recent trade visit to India, he is also expected to highlight the importance of Scotland’s international relationships and the opportunities they offer businesses seeking new markets.

Mr Swinney is expected to say:

“I want Scotland to grow a world-class economy.

“And I want Scotland to be the best place in the world to start, scale and grow a business.

“And yet, while this evening is a celebration of success, it is also a moment to ask what comes next.

“How do we ensure Scotland remains competitive in a rapidly changing world?

“How do we turn our strengths into future growth? And how do we ensure businesses have the confidence to invest, innovate, scale up and succeed here in Scotland?

“Global instability, skills shortages, rising costs and increasing international competition are challenges that many of us will recognise.

“New technologies are reshaping industries, global markets are becoming more competitive and the pace of change is accelerating in ways few of us could have imagined a decade ago.

“Supply chain disruption, rising costs and trade frictions are a reminder that events taking place across the world have a direct impact on businesses and communities here in Scotland.

“Our biggest challenge is whether Scotland is prepared to meet the demands that change brings. And I am confident that we can be.”

The First Minister’s message places considerable emphasis on the relationship between government and employers, acknowledging that economic ambitions cannot be delivered through public policy alone.

For businesses across the Highlands and Islands, the challenges of recruiting skilled workers, meeting rising operating costs and securing investment are particularly relevant to discussions about Scotland’s economic future.

The speech will also recognise the impact of technological change and international uncertainty, with businesses increasingly required to adapt to circumstances beyond their control.

Mr Swinney will add:

“I cannot achieve any of the ambitions I have set for the next five years without harnessing the collaboration, ambition and creativity of businesses across the country.

“We are committed to working in partnership across the economy to unlock growth, support investment and strengthen Scotland’s competitiveness.

“Scotland’s future success will not be built by any one of us alone.

“It will be shaped by what we achieve together. Our national purpose to deliver better jobs, higher wages, and economic growth.

“Together, we can build a more prosperous and more confident Scotland.”

The ambition is substantial, but its success will depend on whether businesses see meaningful improvements in the conditions they need to invest, employ people and expand.

For Scotland’s entrepreneurs and employers, the real measure will be whether those ambitions translate into practical support, greater confidence and opportunities for sustainable growth.