Businesses across Argyll and Bute are being encouraged to make use of the support available through Business Gateway as Scotland Loves Local Week shines a spotlight on the role small firms play in local communities.
The council’s Business Gateway service has spent the past year helping new businesses get off the ground, supporting existing companies and providing funding to help local enterprises grow.
Over the last 12 months, the service supported 147 new business start ups across Argyll and Bute, provided advice to around 300 local businesses and distributed more than £250,000 in grants and specialist support.
The investment is aimed at helping local entrepreneurs turn ideas into successful businesses while supporting firms that create jobs and strengthen the local economy.
Councillor Math Campbell Sturgess said the service continues to play an important role in helping businesses take their next steps.
“The Council’s Business Gateway team provides advice, guidance and funding that helps our small and micro businesses start-up, develop and thrive.
“I would urge anyone thinking of taking that next step, turning their skill set into a viable business to contact Business Gateway and get the benefit of their expertise.
“But don’t take my word for it.
” Some of the local businesses who have used the service tell us how they have benefited from the support.”
Across Argyll and Bute, businesses from a wide range of sectors have praised the advice, training and encouragement they have received.
A representative from My Happy Days Yoga in Helensburgh said:
“This is an amazing service! I have taken so much from the webinars.”
Mindful Sensory OT Services in Campbeltown highlighted the support available to those taking the leap into self employment.
“Starting my own business in 2022 after a 25-year career in the NHS seemed like a giant leap.
“I am very grateful for the ongoing support, information and encouragement that Business Gateway have provided through their advisor service over the past three years”
Businesses already established and growing have also benefited from specialist advice.
Meekton Enterprises Ltd on Tiree said:
“Business Gateway’s support has been brilliant for our business.
“Having access to expert advice whether it’s market research or specialist guidance on things like VAT has been a huge help. I
“t’s made a real difference to how we grow and plan for the future.”
For Rhona Wheatley of Isle of Bute Distillery, the relationship has stretched back to the earliest days of the business.
“Business Gateway has been part of our journey since we launched in 2018.
“From early advice to ongoing support as we’ve grown, they’ve helped us shape Isle of Bute Distillery into the brand it is today.
“If you’re a new business and feel like you’re too small for Business Gateway, I’d really urge you to reach out, no question is too small and no vision too big.
“Their support meets you where you are, and that makes all the difference.”
As Scotland Loves Local Week continues, the message from those who have used the service is clear.
For many businesses across Argyll and Bute, a little expert support at the right time can make a big difference.
