Starting or growing your business

Business Gateway Lanarkshire provides fully funded one-to-one business support. The team of experienced Business Advisers provide practical advice and guidance to individuals looking to start or become self-employed, new businesses, and established companies looking to develop.

Support is tailored to your business and includes:

• One-to-one adviser support
• Access to expert consultants
• In-person and online workshops
• Research information - including market reports, competitor lists and more
• Networking events
• Access to funding (subject to availability)
• Signposting to a wider support network
• One hour Business Surgeries

For further information and advice, contact the Business Gateway Lanarkshire team at lanarkshire@bgateway.com or 01698 520775 to schedule a personalised appointment with an experienced Business Adviser.

Expert Help can provide up to five days of fully funded specialist business advice in topics ranging from digital marketing to procurement and many more.

We take our responsibilities towards Net Zero seriously, which has led to us working in partnership with the University of Strathclyde to offer businesses a free Carbon Baseline Report via their ExtendPLUS initiative.

The carbon baseline will serve as a foundation for companies to understand your current carbon footprint, identify opportunities to make immediate and medium-term carbon reductions and provide guidance on your journey to Net Zero.

Please note that this is not an energy audit, this is a way for you to have a baseline of your carbon emissions that can be used as a tool to support efforts to reduce carbon emissions, operating costs and towards working in a more environmentally friendly manner. It will also make it easier for you to quantify emission savings when applying for any future public sector financial support.

To obtain a free carbon emissions baseline report, email business.support@southlanarkshire.gov.uk.

ExtendPLUS has committed to providing the completed report no more than 30 days from receipt of the referral.

Scottish Enterprise is Scotland's national economic development agency, dedicated to supporting businesses, innovation, and investment to drive economic growth in the country. It offers a range of services for Scottish-based businesses, including business advice, funding support, and help with international trade. Scottish Enterprise focuses on fostering innovation, helping businesses become more sustainable, and providing access to networks and market opportunities. It also offers assistance with workforce development, research, and collaboration, aiming to enhance Scotland's global competitiveness and economic resilience.

Scottish Development International (SDI) is Scotland's international economic development agency, supporting businesses in Scotland to expand globally and attract investment. It offers a range of services including advice on export strategy, market research, connections to global networks, and guidance on navigating international regulations.

SDI helps Scottish businesses identify growth opportunities in new markets and assists in finding overseas partners, securing investments, and attending international trade events. Through its global offices, SDI offers localized insights and expertise to help companies thrive internationally while promoting Scotland as an investment destination.

If you’re a South Lanarkshire based SME or third sector organisation interested in working with the public sector, Supplier Development Programme (SDP)can help. They offer expert training, support and information to help you win work and grow your business. And best of all – it’s completely free.

Resource Efficient Scotland (RES) is committed to helping businesses in Scotland become more resource-efficient and sustainable. By adopting more sustainable practices, businesses can reduce costs, improve their environmental impact, and enhance their reputation.

RES offers a wide range of services and support to businesses, including:

• Expert Advice: Access tailored advice from energy and resource efficiency experts
• Funding Opportunities: Identify and apply for relevant grants and funding programs to support your sustainability initiatives
• Benchmarking and Monitoring: Measure your business's performance against industry standards and track progress over time
• Training and Workshops: Develop your team's skills and knowledge through a variety of training courses and workshops
• Technology and Innovation: Explore innovative technologies and solutions to improve resource efficiency

By working with RES, businesses can:

• Reduce Costs: Lower energy and water consumption, minimize waste, and optimize supply chain efficiency
• Enhance Reputation: Demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility
• Improve Productivity: Streamline operations and boost employee morale through a positive work environment
• Mitigate Climate Change: Contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Are you aged 18 to 30 and dreaming of starting your own business? Whether you have a spark of an idea or a fully-formed plan, The King’s Trust Enterprise Programme is here to help you make it happen.

What is the Enterprise Programme?

The King’s Trust Enterprise Programme is a transformative journey designed to equip young people with the tools, confidence, and support they need to launch and grow their own businesses. From creative freelancers to tech innovators, we’ve helped thousands of young entrepreneurs across the UK turn their ambitions into reality.

Why join the Programme?

• Expert-led workshops
  Learn the essentials of business planning, marketing, budgeting, and more through interactive sessions led by experienced professionals.
• One-to-one mentoring
  Get matched with a dedicated business mentor who will guide you every step of the way - from refining your idea to navigating challenges.
• Funding opportunities
  Access start-up grants and low-interest loans to help get your business off the ground.
• A supportive community
  Join a network of like-minded young entrepreneurs who are all on the same journey. Share ideas, collaborate, and grow together.
• Ongoing support
  Our help doesn’t stop when your business launches. We’re here for the long haul with continued advice, networking events, and growth opportunities.

Who can apply?

If you're:

• Aged 18 to 30
• Living in the UK
• Unemployed or working fewer than 16 hours a week
• Passionate about starting your own business

…then this programme is for you!

Success stories

From fashion brands to food trucks, app developers to artisan bakers—Kings Trust alumni are proof that with the right support, anything is possible. Your business could be next.

Ready to start your journey?

Take the first step today. Apply now and let The King’s Trust Enterprise Programme help you build a future that’s truly your own.

For more information on how to apply please see the King's Trust website.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is the UK's largest small business campaign group. It represents the interests of small businesses in Scotland, advocating for policies that support their growth and success.

Key services and support provided by the FSB to Scottish businesses include:

• Policy and advocacy: The FSB lobbies the Scottish Government and other relevant bodies to influence policies that impact small businesses, such as taxation, regulation, and infrastructure
• Business advice and support: The FSB offers a range of business advice and support services, including legal advice, HR advice, and financial advice
• Training and development: The FSB provides a variety of training courses and workshops to help small business owners and employees develop the skills they need to succeed
• Networking opportunities: The FSB organizes networking events and conferences to help small business owners connect with other businesses and potential customers
• Member benefits: FSB members benefit from a range of discounts and offers on products and services, including insurance, banking, and utilities