About us

Our purpose and vision

Business Gateway provides free business support for anyone in Scotland. We help individuals who need support to start-up and grow their businesses, by providing one-to-one business advice, online resources and by strengthening the connection between organisations and the business community.

Our commitment

Empowering Scotland’s businesses to start, grow and thrive

At Business Gateway, we believe in the power of Scottish businesses to drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen communities. As a publicly funded service, our mission is to support the economic wellbeing of Scotland by providing free, expert advice and practical support to anyone looking to start or grow a business.

Whether you're taking your first steps with a new idea or scaling an established enterprise, we're here to help. Our nationwide network of experienced business advisers offers 1:1 guidance tailored to your needs. From writing a business plan to accessing funding, developing digital skills, or exploring new markets, we provide the tools and insights to help you succeed.

We also offer a wide range of online resources, interactive webinars, and local events (these should be linked out to relevant pages) ensuring that support is always within reach—wherever you are in Scotland.

We offer:

  • Accessible support: Free, impartial advice for every stage of your business journey.
  • Local expertise: A network of local offices and advisers who understand your community. Find your local page here
  • Practical tools: From business planning templates to market research and digital guides.
  • Stronger connections: Helping you build valuable networks and partnerships. Find out more about who we work with here
Our impact

How we did in 2024/25

We support business all over Scotland to start up and grow, with our network of advisers, wide array of events, and online resources. Find out how we got on in 2024/2025 below.

In 2024-25, we advised more than 51,000 customers across the country and our reach spans every stage of the business journey. Notably, 25,085 customers were at the pre-start stage, and we celebrated the launch of 6,810 new businesses during the year.

Download our Impact Report & find out more about the support we provide

View our Annual Reports from previous years here 

How we can help

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