Scottish Start-up Month returns in September

Scotland's national campaign for aspiring business owners, Scottish Start-up Month, returns this September. Its first year of running coincided with the launch of 1,922 new businesses (supported by Business Gateway) between September and November – 201 more than the same period the previous year.

Led by Business Gateway, Scottish Start-up Month aims to inspire more people to explore self-employment and starting a business, while encouraging Scotland's business community to share advice with the next generation of business owners.

For those looking to take the first step, Business Gateway’s business-support tool can help users assess how ready they are to start a business and access a start-up toolkit, which includes advice, webinars and support tailored to their idea.

Last year, 1,092 people used the tool to test their business idea, up from 924 the year before. Business Gateway also received 2,750 enquiries during the month, an increase of more than seven per cent on the previous September.

Alongside the online tools, local business advisers are on hand to offer free one-to-one support in each of Scotland's 32 local-authority areas. The advisers can help refine business ideas, develop plans, identify customers and access the support needed to launch and grow a successful business.

Councillor Gail Macgregor, chair of the Business Gateway board said:

“Business Gateway supports business owners year-round, but we felt it was important to create a milestone within the year to focus attention on those that might be out there considering an idea but just need to take the first step. Last year's campaign showed the appetite is there when we demonstrate what support is available, with over 2,700 enquiries around Scotland.

“Whether you're ready to launch or simply curious about self-employment, our advisers can help to make the first – often daunting - move. And if you already run a business, I'd encourage you to make a pledge this September and share what you've learned with the next generation of Scotland's business owners.”

https://www.bgateway.com/start-up-month