How to Expand an Existing Business and Access International Markets

As part of its aim to foster long term sustainable economic growth in Scotland the Scottish Government has a range of initiatives to encourage business start-ups and grow existing businesses. These include financial support and advice, both directly, and via other delivery agents, including Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Development International and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Scottish Enterprise: www.scottish-enterprise.com

Scottish Enterprise covers the southern half of Scotland, from the Grampians right down to the Borders. It provides a range of support services through Business Gateway outlets and its Local Enterprise Companies in each of its geographical areas.

Business Gateway services can help you whether you are planning to start a new business or want your existing business to grow. If you are thinking of starting in business it can help you complete your business plan and start your business at your own pace. If you want to grow your business it can provide support and expertise. Call 0845 609 6611 and you'll be put through to a business adviser in your area.

Its Local Enterprise Companies have developed a range of products and services to develop individual sectors or specialised areas of business. For more information on the nearest  local enterprise company visit www.scottish-enterprise.com or call their  helpline on 0845 607 8787.

Scottish Development International (SDI) 

SDI's objective is to benefit the Scottish economy by encouraging inward investment into Scotland and by helping Scottish-based companies to develop trade activities and partnerships outside Scotland.

SDI provides a wide range of support services to Scottish-based companies to assist them in internationalising their business and developing overseas opportunities. This includes advice, access to specialists, selective business mentoring and development. For further information please click on www.scottishdevelopmentinternational.com

Highlands & Islands Enterprise

In the Highlands and Islands, similar services are provided by Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) which offers business start up assistance to any adult starting a business in the area. The business may be full, part-time or seasonal and the assistance offered will take the form of advice, information and training to enable the client to design a sound business plan. One of HIE’s Local Enterprise Companies may then also offer funding to assist the new business, this assistance being dependent on the type of business and the needs of the local economy.

For more information visit www.hie.co.uk

Or please e-mail business@scotlandistheplace.com or telephone 0845 602 0297