Business Gateway

16/06/2026

🚀 Ready to turn your ideas into impact?

Ready to RISE is a free 8-week programme supporting women and non-binary people across Scotland to explore social entrepreneurship, build confidence, develop new skills, and create flexible, meaningful work that makes a difference.

There are 15-20 places available, and there’s potential to access up to £1,000 in grant funding to help take your idea forward.

The programme is 8-weeks long and takes place online on Wednesdays from 10am-12.30pm, with the first cohort starting in September ⏰

Whether you're returning to work, considering a career change, or simply curious about social enterprise, this programme is designed to help you discover what's possible.

Find out more and sign up for an online information session tomorrow (17 June) at 10am ⬇️ firstport.org.uk/business-support/ready-to-rise

Firstport

A programme for women and non-binary people who want to explore social entrepreneurship to earn a living, create their ideal workplace and make a positive impact.

12/06/2026

For Eshan and Suzy of OakHill Cafe & Deli, developing their digital skills has helped them grow their online presence and connect with customers in a meaningful way.

Looking to build your digital confidence and grow your business online? Find out more about the free digital skills support we offer ➡️ https://www.bgateway.com/about-us/digital-skills

11/06/2026

The First Minister’s Start Up Challenge, delivered by The King's Trust in partnership with Dechomai Ltd, is a new programme designed to support young people aged 18–30 in Scotland to turn business ideas into reality.

Participants can access a package of support, including:

🔴 £500 ‘Test Your Business’ grant to trial an idea

🔴 Opportunity to apply for a £5,000 start-up grant

🔴 Ongoing mentoring and business guidance

🔴A chance to win a £30,000 top award to develop the business full-time for a year

⏰ The closing date is the 24th June.

Find more information and details of how to apply here ⬇️

The First Minister’s Start Up Challenge is here to help young people aged 18 – 30 in Scotland turn ambition into action.

10/06/2026

Applications are open for the Women's Enterprise Scotland Awards 2026! 🌟

Do you know a woman-led business making an impact in Scotland? Or are you leading one yourself?

The WES Awards celebrate the innovation, ambition, leadership and success of women-led businesses across the country. With nine award categories covering everything from start-ups and innovation to digital transformation, rural enterprise and purpose-led business, there's an opportunity to showcase the incredible work being done by women entrepreneurs throughout Scotland.

⏰ The closing date for entries is midnight, Monday 15 June 2026.

Find out more & apply ➡️

Celebrate your business success with an award in 2026. Be part of the celebration of women's business success, inspire others and raise awareness of your achievements.

02/06/2026

We're here to help business owners build confidence online.

Access free one-to-one advice, practical guides and webinars to improve your digital skills.

Visit: bgateway.com/about-us/digitalskills

27/05/2026

AI search is changing the game for small businesses 🚀

If your business isn’t showing up in ChatGPT or Google’s AI Overviews, you could be missing out on valuable customers.

This practical guide, written by Gary Ennis of NSDesign, breaks down:

✅ How AI search works

✅ How to earn mentions and citations in ChatGPT and Google's AI Overviews

✅ What small businesses should do right now to stay visible online

Read here ➡️ bgateway.com/resources/marketing-and-sales/ai-search-optimisation-a-practical-guide-for-small-business-owners

26/05/2026

Mairi, founder of Slàinte Sauces, tapped into new sales opportunities by growing her digital skills.

We’re here to help you do the same with free one-to-one advice, webinars and practical guides.

Explore our resources ➡️ bgateway.com/about-us/digital-skills

25/05/2026

22/05/2026

Want to build your digital skills?

Access free one-to-one advice, webinars and practical guides to grow your business online.

Explore our resources ➡️ bgateway.com/about-us/digital-skills

18/05/2026

Karen-Ann, founder of Highland School of Jewellery, used social media to reach new customers.

We offer free one-to-one advice, webinars and practical guides to help you grow your business online.

Explore our resources ➡️ https://www.bgateway.com/about-us/digital-skills