How to Start a Business

If you are resident in an EEA (European Economic Area) country, you are welcome to come to Scotland to start a business. You don’t need any formal permission and there is no limit on how long you can stay.

The rules are different if you are a non-EEA national. 

For information on starting up a business with advice on finance, taxes, employing people, sales and marketing and much more please contact the Business Gateway network on tel: 0845 609 6611 or visit www.bgateway.com

The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) encourages, challenges and supports young people in Scotland through the efforts of committed staff and volunteers to achieve their greatest potential in starting up and running their own business. For more information please visit: www.psybt.org.uk/startingabusiness.asp   
 
Those with full rights of free movement within the European Union and International students who have successfully completed their studies and have the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme 2 years leave to remain, are eligible to apply for business start-up grants and loans which are available through the Business Gateways across Scotland and the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust. 

You may wish to view some of the start-ups featured in our case studies section on companies.

Scottish Institute for Enterprise (SIE) is committed to developing students from Scotland's education institutions into the finest entrepreneurs and leaders of tomorrow.  With a network of highly committed and motivated business advisors, enterprise managers and student interns, SIE helps stimulate, educate, facilitate and create enterprising individuals through a series of programmes, events and one-on-one coaching and mentoring. 

If you have any questions please e-mail business@scotlandistheplace.com or telephone 0845 602 0297.