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Edinburgh's three universities have joined forces in a radical scheme to stimulate the growth of local high-tech companies.

The "Connect" programme, launched by Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt and Napier universities, brings together academics, entrepreneurs, investors, bankers, corporations and policy makers to bridge the knowledge gap between the different groups.

The scheme, initiated by Edinburgh University management school lecturer Ian McDonald, is based on the University of California San Diego's programme which boosted the growth of technology-based ventures in the region.