Business support at your fingertips

We’re here to help businesses across Scotland

Starting or growing a business is a big step — but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our publicly funded service is here to support people across Scotland with tailored guidance at every stage of their business journey.

Access free 1:1 expert advice, online resources, and a wide range of webinars and events. Whether you're planning to start-up or want to strengthen your business, we have the tools and guidance to help you every step of the way.

And you can use our personalised business support tool to get recommendations built around your own specific goals and challenges.

Personalised support Find your local team

Andy O'Neill O'Neill Trees & Timber

6,810

Number of businesses we helped start-up last year.

51,000+

Number of customers we advised last year.

25,311

Number of attendees at our webinars and events last year.

Resources

Guidance and tools for every stage of your journey

Search our resources

Looking to start a business?

You may be planning to start a business or perhaps you've just begun. Find advice on the essentials, from writing a business plan to intellectual property.

Explore start-up resources

Already running a business?

Whether you’re looking to improve your bookkeeping skills, or not sure how to grow and manage your team, our online guides and articles provide information and guidance to help.

Explore existing business resources

Digital skills support

Access CPD-certified webinars, online resources, and expert guidance covering everything from digital marketing and social media to e-commerce, websites, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Boost your digital skills

Resource finder

Not sure where to start?

We can help you search our site to find services and resources specific to your business stage and what sector you operate in.

Step 1 What stage is your business at?

Step 2 What sector is your business in?

Step 3 Where is your business based?

Writing a Business Plan (Part 2) – Inverclyde

Getting Found in an AI-Driven World: What to Focus on (and What to Stop Doing)

Tax Allowances - what can I claim as a Business Expense?

Events & Webinars

Learn, connect & grow

We have over 250 free webinars and events coming up across Scotland. Find out what’s running online and in your region, and sign up today.

Events

Chris Johnstone Réalta Architecture Ltd

Facing redundancy was daunting, but it gave me the push to create something of my own. With the support and advice from Business Gateway, I was able to turn uncertainty into opportunity and build a business that really reflects my values and expertise.

Chris Johnstone, Réalta Architecture Ltd

Read Chris's story

Inspiration

Real stories, real impact

Find out more about the businesses we’ve supported

Dumfries and Galloway photographer expands business

A Dumfries and Galloway photographer has expanded her business after receiving support from Business Gateway.

1 Apr 2026

East Lothian outdoor nursery demonstrates commercial potential of off-grid childcare 

A fully outdoor, off-grid early years nursery in Dunbar is demonstrating how sustainable childcare models can succeed commercially, as Dunbar Outdoor Learning responds to growing demand for nature-based childcare, supported by Business Gateway East Lothian.  

5 Mar 2026

New coffee business launches on Isle of Lewis 

A new coffee business has opened in Stornoway after its owners accessed support from Business Gateway.  

4 Mar 2026

Ready to take the next step?

Get personalised support

Whether you have an idea, or are looking to grow your business, our Business Support tool gives you access to personalised resources and advice on the next step, as well as putting you in touch with your local office.

Connect with your local team

We have local teams across Scotland who can provide 1:1 support on starting-up, funding, business plans and more.

Marguerite Spina Villaggio Gelato