Businesses come in all shapes and sizes. In Scotland, 99% of all private sector businesses are small to medium size enterprises – and they provide an estimated 1.1 million jobs*. What could you add to that mix?

Scottish tourism businesses and the fantastic work they do make up the lifeblood of our industry. The world-class standards of our accommodation providers, visitor attractions, visitor/experiences, restaurants and other businesses are why Scotland attracts so many new and returning visitors year after year.

Has web design left you scratching your head?Unsure where to start? Website DIY left you wanting to cry? Did your best friend's nephew who's a "wizz with computers" offer to do it, but now isn't returning your calls? Or maybe you already have a website, but don't have a clue what the login is, and there's no response to your emails? Don't worry, we've heard (and solved!) all these web design problems before. We offer fixed fee web design packages that are perfect for new, small, and growing businesses. They include everything you need to get online, and our clear pricing means you don't pay a penny for anything you don't need. We even offer a free homepage draft before we get started, so you can be sure you're going to love your new website.Get in touch today, we would be delighted to have a coffee and a chat.

There are plenty of examples of successful entrepreneurs and ideas. You may find reading them sparks your own imagination and inspires you to seek out and build your own enterprise – whatever its size! Students have great ideas for ventures and with a bit of perseverance and support, turn them into successful ventures.

Details of funding schemes for rural businesses in Scotland including the Scottish Rural Development Programme. Grants and support for economic, environmental and social measures to benefit rural Scotland are available through the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP).

By joining the Chamber you become part of a powerful business network that lobby on behalf of business and contribute to business legislation at a local, Scottish and UK level. As well as gaining access to various events and services specifically tailored to encourage and develop your business. Being a member of the West Lothian Chamber of Commerce gives you exclusive access to a range of opportunities that help you get ahead in business. By joining the Chamber you become part of a powerful business network that lobbies on behalf of businesses and contributes to business legislation at local, Scottish and UK level, as well as gaining access to various events and services specifically tailored to encourage and develop your business. West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Systems House Alba Business Park Livingston EH54 7EG

Business Gateway West Lothian provides expert support and guidance to new and existing businesses. Find out what support and webinars are available to you and your business. Arrochar HouseAlmondvale BoulevardLivingston EH54 6QJ

Being a member of the West Lothian Chamber of Commerce gives you exclusive access to a range of opportunities that help you get ahead in business.By joining the Chamber you become part of a powerful business network that lobbies on behalf of businesses and contributes to business legislation at local, Scottish and UK level, as well as gaining access to various events and services specifically tailored to encourage and develop your business. West Lothian Chamber of CommerceSystems HouseAlba Business ParkRosebankLivingstonEH54 7EG

Whatever stage your business is at, you will find enthusiastic, professional staff at West Lothian Council's Economic Development service who can provide a full range of assistance to business.

Starting a business is exciting, and succeeding is rewarding, but what about the bit between? You know, that bit that’s full of self-doubt, endless repetition and feelings of being out of your comfort zone? We call it ‘The Lonely Middle’ and it’s one of the hardest parts of creating a successful business. We know, we’ve been there. So, we created The Lonely Middle Club to help you through it. Each month you get exclusive content to help give you the knowledge and inspiration to succeed. Plus, you get access to a private members-only Facebook group where you can get advice and network with small business owners who are going through similar challenges to you. If you want even more, you can download our 51 worksheets, guides, and journals all designed to do one thing, and one thing only… help you get through ‘The Lonely Middle’ and achieve your business goals. Visit our website today to join the club and benefit from our members price lock and full no questions asked money-back guarantee.

Whatever stage your business is at, you will find enthusiastic, professional staff at West Lothian Council's Economic Development service who can provide a full range of assistance to business. Advice & Support It often helps to talk through a new idea with an unbiased third party. Many businesses use this facility before making an approach to a bank or other potential funding body. We can also help with the business planning process in a practical way, by linking up with our Business Information Service to provide the overview or background you need. Access To Funding Our business advisers are well versed in the eligibility criteria for many of the schemes of financial assistance on offer. They'll help you search for grants appropriate for your business and have a proven track record in accessing these funds. And where financial assistance is unlikely to be forthcoming, they'll give you a straightforward answer. conomic Development staff co-ordinate a full schedule of events, seminars and programmes, including Business Gateway Start-Up and Growth workshops, designed to keep businesses informed and proficient in areas such as Management Development, Finance, Marketing and e-Business. Business Information Service Our professional approach to sourcing the information you need for your business could save you time and money and give you a real competitive advantage. The Business Information Service can benefit your company in so many different ways - whether you're just at the stage of writing your business plan, or are planning to develop and expand overseas. Property As a major owner of commercial property, West Lothian Council may be able to help meet your property requirements. We also provide a comprehensive search facility, covering all available industrial, retail and office property throughout the county.

SCC we are dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of our member companies and to helping them rise to the challenge, seize the opportunity and succeed in the marketplace. By joining a Chamber of Commerce your company automatically becomes part of Scotlands largest business organisation, with access to an unrivalled range of services, support and advice to aid your development as a thriving member of the business community. Address: Scottish Chambers of Commerce, 30 George Square, Glasgow, G2 1EQ

FSB West of Scotland is the local branch of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). It was formed in 1974 as the National Federation of Self Employed and represents the interests of small and medium-sized businesses locally and nationally. They offer a great package tailored to your needs if you are thinking about starting a business in the area. Contact: Hisashi Kuboyama Development Manager Hisashi.Kuboyama@fsb.org.uk

Would you like you to know how your business could benefit from digital upskilling? Training, guides, tutorials, workshops, 1:1 advice and consultancy – all for free.

The Scottish Rural Network website is your one-stop-shop for news, events and information about rural development. We can help you connect with other people, communities, organisations and businesses across rural Scotland and beyond.

Small business grants in Scotland tend to either be funded by the Scottish or UK Government, as well as the European Union (EU). Generally, the funding is either available for any business across Scotland (or for businesses intending to be based in Scotland). Alternatively, some grants are only available to businesses working in certain sectors or specific locations.