Business Gateway supports more than 100 start-ups

Despite the challenges of the Covid pandemic, Argyll and Bute Business Gateway has supported 135 new businesses to start up over the last 12 months.

These supported start-ups have a combined projected turnover above £6 million and are predicted to create more than 200 jobs.

Business Gateway offers a programme of free support and resources to provide business owners with relevant advice and guidance when they need it most. Confidential advice from an experienced local business adviser is available via phone or video for anyone wanting to start up a business in Argyll and Bute.

In addition, subject experts are available for one-hour specialist advice sessions on a range

of topics including digital, HR, marketing, PR, finance, exporting, importing, tendering and growth strategy.

National webinars are available covering key topics including HR, business strategy, marketing on a budget and writing a business plan. In addition there are online coaching sessions and a wide range of digital guides.

Business Gateway Argyll and Bute has a team of experienced business advisers on hand to help both existing businesses and those looking to make the move into self-employment.

Anyone looking to start up a business is encouraged to complete the Planning to Start Tool at bgateway.com and reach out to the local Business Gateway office to find out more about the help on offer.

Customer satisfaction with the Argyll and Bute Business Gateway service is high, with 86 per cent of users rating themselves satisfied and

85 per cent stating the support received will benefit their business.