Business guidance
From starting your business, to managing it day-to-day, growing and trading internationally, our business guides provide practical support to Scottish businesses.
Is self-employment right for me
Consider the implications of being self-employed, with a look at the pros and cons.
7 essential steps to starting your own business
This guide sets out the key considerations so you can turn your dream into a successful start-up.
How to write your business plan
A compelling and comprehensive business plan is an important asset for any business.
Understanding your market
To be successful you need to understand what your customers want and how to reach them.
Naming and setting up your business
What to consider when naming your business and the different types of trading status.
Financing a start-up
Secure the finance your business needs to reach its potential.
Becoming a Limited Company director
Find out more about the role and the responsibilities of being a director.
Creating a marketing plan
An effective marketing plan is a key tool for a successful business.
10 steps to creating a business website
Create a strong digital presence with 10 simple steps.
Your borrowing choices explained
In this guide, we look at the various borrowing options available to help small businesses control cash flow and drive growth.
Making Tax Digital (MTD) changes
MTD is changing to include Income Tax Self-Assessment. Understand the changes and how to prepare.
Understanding VAT
Read this business guide to gain a broad understanding of VAT, how it works, when to register and the potential benefits.
How an accountant can help your business
This guide covers the many benefits of hiring an accountant to keep on top of your business finances.
How can flexible working boost your business?
Embrace a flexible working approach to help you and your employees thrive.
How to make and receive international payments
Learn how to make international payments.
Improving your cash flow in 9 steps
Look ahead and manage your cash flow forecast.
How to accept payments online
Many customers expect to be able to make payments online.
Business contingency planning
Identifying and planning for risks increases your businesses chances of surviving them.
Employment law
Outlining best practice on recruitment through to health and safety.
Payroll systems
How to pay your employees in full and on time using an efficient payroll system.
Disability in the workplace
Create a truly diverse workforce that reflects the people you serve.
Dark web threats
Understand the threats of this hidden ecosystem and the steps you can take to protect your business.
Mental health in the workplace
This guide talks about the benefits of building well-being into your business, how to foster a supportive environment within the workplace and tips on improving resilience.
How to grow your business
Growing a resilient business means planning for sustainable growth.
Importing
Importing could mean lower production costs, but there are many pros and cons to consider.
5 things you need to know about exporting
Considering exporting could mean increased revenue and diversifying your risk.
Alternative funding for growth
Fortunately, these days there are more options than ever for getting business funding.
International Commercial Terms
The language you’ll need when trading abroad, defining the responsibilities of sellers and buyers.
The right property for your business
How to find a property that fits your growing business.
Building customer relationships
How to improve customer service and find loyal customers.
The impact of therapeutic coaching
Discover the outcomes for many small businesses.
Self-esteem in business leadership
Tips for managing self-esteem to benefit you and your business.
Burnout: a business leader’s guide
Guidance and strategies for business leaders.
Is mental health affecting your business?
Identifying and addressing burnout.
Strengthen your resilience
Building your resilience can help you bounce back.
Coping with stress and anxiety
Find strategies to tackle stress and anxiety.
How to talk about mental health
Support your colleagues in a safe, sensitive and helpful way.
Supporting Black-owned businesses
Our dedicated hub provides access to the right tools, expertise and finance to help your business grow.