These programs work by encouraging these industries to set up and build in the region. It is likely a win in the long run, it's not a conspiracy to give away money.

Billion dollar company is motivated to install a branch in the middle of bumfuck nowhere, is surprised to discover a very well educated workforce, who performs well because they have protective labour laws. The local population gets great salaries (on par with city salaries), because otherwise the talent fuck off to the big cities. The salaries help the local businesses flourish. It's a win win situation, really.
It's what happened in Ireland, no reason Scotland couldn't do the same.