New-start businesses urged to make contact with Business Gateway Highland to get further support
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New businesses are being offered additional support as part of Highland Council's economic recovery programme.
Its enhanced business start-up programme was announced on Wednesday at the local authority’s meeting of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee.
Aimed at helping new businesses get off to a flying start, start-up entrepreneurs are now able through the council’s business gateway service to:
• get access to impartial and free advisory support;
• secure awareness and training support on all aspects of starting and running a business;
• £500 financial support to help in getting off the ground.
The launch of the support programme will coincide with Business Gateway’s campaign to promote the new Planning To Start service, which will include extra resources, advice and one-to-one support from a local adviser.
Councillor Trish Robertson, the committee chairwoman, said: “The council has always recognised the importance of a vibrant start-up sector and our Business Gateway Highland team has been leading the way in support, both before and during the pandemic.
“However, this period has thrown up many challenges and as a result we decided to review and revamp support, both advisory and financial, that is available to start-up businesses.
“This improved service has been made possible with additional funds from the council’s Economic Prosperity Fund, and we are inviting anyone interested in starting their business in Highland to contact Business Gateway Highland and see how we can help.
“We will also be bringing forward in the coming weeks details of our new growing business support package which will also provide Highland businesses with a package of advisory and financial support.
“I would encourage people with a new business idea or even expansion plans to make contact with Business Gateway Highland as your first stop shop and make the most of the support that is available.”
• Further details are available here.
