Community is key to building Scotland's startup scene, guest blog by Barry McDonald, VP of Community Development and Engagement, CodeBase

In November, Techscaler will have been operational for a year, and as we look forward to the next steps of the programme I wanted to reflect on something that has been, and will continue to be, instrumental in supporting the Scottish tech startup ecosystem: the incredible value of community.

And, of course, we have seen this whole idea of community play out over the last week since we heard the saddening news that CodeClan had ceased operations.  The rallying call in response, from so many individuals and organisations, has been a heartening upside to what has otherwise been such a difficult time for students and staff affected.

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of tech startups, it's easy to get caught up in the frenzy of coding, hustling, and chasing success. But let's not forget that behind every great startup, there's a thriving ecosystem of support, collaboration, and shared experiences that propels us forward. Empowering and supportive communities can help founders and early startup teams achieve their potential success.

Communities have this magical ability to bring together individuals who are passionate about similar goals and interests. Whether it's through industry events, meetups, or online communities, connecting with like-minded people provides us with an opportunity to learn, grow, and exchange ideas. Through the Techscaler programme, founders and startup team members in Scotland have access to all of these, helping them develop their startups in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Recently, we've rolled out Unfiltered and Unplugged networking events across Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, Aberdeen and Stirling, to build connections with the tech community across Scotland. We’ve hosted, collaborated on and supported events across the ecosystem, on topics including traveltech, IP, marketing, diversity, equity and inclusion, the metaverse, blockchain, funding readiness and much more. This summer, with Panache Ventures, we’re holding events to bring VC insights and tech founders together. The events calendar is building for the year ahead and we're only just getting started, and there is a host of exciting community-driven events to be announced soon.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the tech startup community is its willingness to help one another. It's a world where experienced entrepreneurs, industry veterans, and bright-eyed newcomers all come together, ready to lend a helping hand, share their insights, and offer guidance based on their own triumphs and challenges.

Being part of a vibrant startup community has countless advantages. It opens doors to mentorship opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations that can propel our ventures to new heights. It also exposes us to diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and the latest trends in technology. The collective wisdom and experience of the community can save us from making rookie mistakes and accelerate our learning curve.

But let's not overlook the emotional support that the community provides. The startup journey can be an exhilarating rollercoaster ride, filled with highs and lows. Having a network of fellow entrepreneurs who truly understand the highs of securing funding or the lows of a failed product launch is invaluable. These connections offer a safe space to vent, seek advice, and find solace during tough times. It's a reminder that we're not alone in this wild entrepreneurial adventure.

So, let's cherish and nurture the community that surrounds us. Let's actively participate, engage, and contribute, knowing that the more we give, the more we receive. Share your knowledge, celebrate wins and failures, lend a helping hand, and be open to learning from others. Together, we can shape a thriving ecosystem that breeds innovation, collaboration, and endless possibilities and continue building something remarkable together, to see entrepreneurs across Scotland succeed.