National award for Edinburgh programme developing future business leaders
The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce has been recognised with a national Outstanding Achievement Award for its work helping to develop future business leaders.
An Edinburgh development programme to help shape the Scottish business leaders of the future has been recognised with a national award.
The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce received the Outstanding Achievement Award at the British Chambers of Commerce Chamber Awards 2026, in recognition of its Rising Stars Leadership Programme.
Delivered in partnership with The University of Edinburgh, Rising Stars is a leadership development programme designed to help emerging professionals build the skills, confidence and networks needed to thrive in a rapidly changing business environment.
Developed by Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, the six-part programme was shaped directly by the needs of Edinburgh’s business community. Insights from the Chamber’s Membership Survey identified leadership and management, communication, and AI and digital skills as key development priorities for employers.
The programme explored topics including AI-enhanced strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, team dynamics, communication, personal brand and innovation.
Rising Stars Leadership builds on the success of the Chamber’s wider Rising Stars network, which has engaged more than 500 professionals from over 200 organisations and 23 sectors since 2022.
The inaugural leadership cohort brought together 20 participants from across the private, public and third sectors.
Every participant reported increased confidence as a leader, said the programme met or exceeded expectations, and would recommend it to others. Participants now remain connected through a dedicated Rising Stars Alumni Network.
Liz Dalton (McAreavey), Chief Executive of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition.
“Rising Stars was created in response to a challenge facing organisations across all sectors - how to prepare people not only for the roles they hold today, but for the leadership responsibilities they’ll take on in the future.
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“As workplaces and technologies continue to evolve, future leaders need more than technical expertise. They need adaptability, sound judgement and the confidence to lead through change. By investing in those capabilities early, we’re helping organisations nurture talent, build resilience and support long-term economic success.
“This award also highlights the value of collaboration between business and academia. Working with The University of Edinburgh, we’ve combined employer insight with world-class expertise to create a programme that is already making a meaningful impact.
“Huge congratulations to our team, members, and partners.”
Applications for the 2027 Rising Stars Leadership Programme are now open here.
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