Tackling challenges for society through data innovation

From food production and climate change, to exploring space and genetically-tailored healthcare, the Data-Driven Innovation initiative is a cluster of innovation hubs that brings academic disciplines together to delve into some of the world’s most pressing challenges – using data to innovate.
Through the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University's joint role in the City Region Deal, we’re aiming to boost digital skills, promote entrepreneurship, and the adoption of data-driven innovation by 10 industry sectors.
Learn more about the impact of the Data-Driven Innovation initiative.
Turning 30 million old photos into digital gold
A major supercomputing project is digitising one of the world’s largest collections of aerial photos. Builders, the economy and even unsolved crimes could benefit.
Unlocking the power of data
Data is vital for shaping our future and driving progress across various fields. The Data-Driven Innovation (DDI) initiative seeks to capitalise on big data to spur economic growth. By focusing on innovation, education, and skill development, we pave the way for a future optimized by data.
Guiding the use of AI towards cultural benefit
A consumer backlash to widespread application of AI in the creative industries shows why we need more judicious use of the technology to enrich our lives.
Ten target sectors
We’re aiming to help organisations across 10 industrial sectors, from fintech and tourism, to healthcare and agriculture. Here’s a snapshot of our activities in each area.
Our Data-Driven Innovation hubs
Learn about the institutes and research centres that are part of the DDI programme.