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

The King's Trust (formerly The Princes Trust) is a fantastic resource for young people eager to start a business. They offer a comprehensive range of support services, including:

• Free Enterprise Programme: This programme provides young people aged 18-30 with the skills and knowledge needed to start their own businesses. It includes workshops on business planning, finance, marketing, and legal considerations
• Mentorship: The King's Trust connects young entrepreneurs with experienced business mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and support
• Funding: The Trust offers grants and loans to help young people finance their business ventures
• Networking Opportunities: The King's Trust organizes networking events that connect young entrepreneurs with potential investors, customers, and other business owners

By providing these valuable resources, the King's Trust empowers young people to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.