The free event, delivered by Business Gateway and its national support partners including Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland, and sponsored by British Business Bank, saw more than 40 webinars and masterclasses presented over the week.
Councillor Gail Macgregor, Environment and Economy spokesperson for COSLA, opened events. She talked about the demanding circumstances Scottish business owners find themselves in and the unique resilience of the Scottish people that helps the business community persist despite the extreme challenges facing them.
A panel discussion led by Business Gateway’s Chief Officer, Hugh Lightbody, explored the support landscape, focusing on what help is available for businesses immediately. Hugh was joined by representatives from all business support agencies, who provided updates on how they have adapted their support to meet the demands of businesses following the ongoing impact of the pandemic and gave clear guidance on where to seek funding.
Other events also explored the opportunities through digital transformation, apprenticeship offerings, and market research. Each discussion opened the floor to attendees, with the opportunity to pose questions to panellists and speakers.
Business Coach Jayne Murdoch from South of Scotland Enterprise led a panel discussion on the business landscape for women in business which was attended by more than 60 guests. Inspired discussions from panellists including Carolyn Currie of Women's Enterprise Scotland; Jo Chidley of Beauty Kitchen Ltd; and Kylie Reid of egg, explored the barriers to funding, the strong business network in Scotland, and the opportunities that come from more diversity in the workforce.
Carolyn Currie commented: “Gender diversity drives radical step change innovation. That’s the kind of innovation that makes us competitive as a nation and drives the economy.”
Keynote speakers through the week included Ivan McKee, Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise, Scottish Government; Andrew Dobbie, Founder / CEO, MadeBrave; Paul Wheelhouse, Net Zero Implementation Lead – Energy Transition, South of Scotland Enterprise.
Gail Macgregor, Environment & Economy Spokesperson at COSLA, said: “Scottish Business Week 2022 brought together some of the best and most innovative thought-leaders and entrepreneurs from around the country, to share insight, experience, create discussion, and importantly, provide a sense of community for Scotland’s business owners and aspiring start-ups.
“In these current challenging times, the event was also an opportunity for us to signpost vital information on managing the economic and labour difficulties the country is facing, along with more in-depth sessions on access to funding and building core business skills. I’m confident the event will have inspired the next set of entrepreneurs to take the leap into starting up a business in Scotland.”
Also taking part in the discussions were several small businesses that had been supported by Business Gateway throughout their start-up and growth journeys. They shared their own experiences from working alongside Business Gateway, as well as the knowledge, hints, and tips they have picked up along the way.
All sessions are available to watch here.