Monday October 19th 2026
Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce team (photograph taken by Philip J.A Benton)
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce has received a national award recognising its work to develop the next generation of business leaders.
The Chamber won the Outstanding Achievement Award at the British Chambers of Commerce Chamber Awards 2026 for its Rising Stars Leadership Programme, delivered in partnership with the University of Edinburgh.
The six-part programme was designed to help emerging professionals develop the skills, confidence and connections needed to succeed in a changing business environment.
Developed through the Edinburgh Futures Institute, the initiative was shaped by feedback from Edinburgh’s business community. The Chamber’s Membership Survey identified leadership and management, communication, and artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills as key priorities for employers.
Participants explored a range of topics, including AI-enhanced strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, team dynamics, personal branding and innovation.
The leadership programme builds on the Chamber’s wider Rising Stars network, which has engaged more than 500 professionals from over 200 organisations across 23 sectors since 2022.
Its inaugural cohort brought together 20 participants from the private, public and third sectors.
All participants reported increased confidence as leaders, said the programme met or exceeded their expectations, and stated they would recommend it to others. Graduates remain connected through a dedicated Rising Stars Alumni Network.
Liz Dalton (McAreavey), chief executive of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said the award recognised the importance of preparing professionals for future leadership roles.
“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.
“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.
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