Tag: Business Gateway

Edinburgh cultural guide builds slow-travel project with Business Gateway support

An Edinburgh-based tour operator is turning a personal storytelling project into a sustainable tourism activity thanks to tailored guidance from Business Gateway.

Un Italiano ad Edimburgo (An Italian in Edinburgh), founded by Andrea Moretti, offers private walking tours of Edinburgh, bespoke car tours across Scotland and personalised itineraries, all delivered entirely in Italian. Andrea combines the knowledge of a local guide with the flexibility of a personal tour leader, ensuring visitors experience Scotland authentically and at their own pace.

Having moved to Scotland from Italy six years ago, Andrea’s passion for Scotland led him to author The Slowness of the Thistle: A Journey into the Soul of Scotland, a book encouraging travellers to explore the country with curiosity and attention to detail. Sharing his travels across Scotland on his Facebook page, Andrea gradually built a community of followers. Step by step, he realised visitors were not only looking for a guide, but for help interpreting the country, which led him to formalise the project as a business.

The business champions slow, responsible tourism through small, private tours that offer visitors an authentic and meaningful connection to Scotland’s people, landscapes and culture.

Since starting last year, Andrea has expanded his offering to include multi-day experiences and collaborations with local producers, giving Italian travellers a truly immersive Scottish journey. Tours are designed to be accessible for everyone, including families with children, travellers with pets, or those with mobility or sensory needs. Every experience is tailor-made, combining history, curiosity and local stories.

Business Gateway has helped Andrea structure and formalise the project as a recognised tourism activity. Adviser Lee Briggs provided one-to-one guidance through the early stages, from business planning and registration to defining clear offers for individual travellers, families and travel agencies.

Andrea also received expert support on marketing strategy, digital presence, SEO, social media planning and client communication, alongside workshops and webinars to strengthen his business knowledge.

Thanks to this support, Andrea launched an official website for Un Italiano ad Edimburgo, building a strong online presence to support its social platforms. The business also became officially listed on VisitScotland.com and Forever Edinburgh as a registered tour operator, marking a significant achievement for a small independent business.

Andrea Moretti said: “At the beginning, the project An Italian in Edinburgh was just a way to share my experiences with friends – a diary of photos, stories and tips born out of passion. Step by step, post by post, the community grew, and so did my role: from enthusiast to guide for many Italian travellers.

“As a new Scot, I’ve been amazed at the level of support available. Business Gateway helped me structure the idea, refine my offer and gain the confidence to make the project sustainable without losing its original purpose: helping visitors understand Scotland rather than simply see it.

“Lee’s guidance and support in accessing funding have made a real difference, giving me the foundation and tools to grow and show visitors a side of Scotland they might never see otherwise.”

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Andrea’s passion for Scotland is infectious. Our guidance helped him take a personal idea and turn it into a real, sustainable business, with a clear identity and strong online presence.

“Supporting him as he brought Un Italiano ad Edimburgo to life has been a pleasure, and I look forward to seeing how he continues to grow his tours and expand his experiences in the years ahead.”


To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.

Edinburgh digital start-up powers ahead with Business Gateway support

An Edinburgh-based digital and web services start-up is building a successful future after its founder turned to Business Gateway for support at a critical moment, following two years of significant personal and professional hardship. 

Power On Web Design, founded by Martin Kay in October 2024, provides creative web design, technology and digital consultancy services to small and medium-sized businesses across Scotland. Since launching in October 2024, the business has grown steadily, gaining recognition within the local business community and securing larger clients alongside its core start-up audience. 

For Martin, the launch of Power On Web Design marked a turning point following a challenging period both personally and professionally. After experiencing family bereavements, job losses and redundancy, he was also diagnosed with ADHD at the same time he first approached Business Gateway. Starting a business was not part of the plan but became an opportunity to rebuild and refocus. 

Drawing on a background in sales at a leading global cybersecurity firm, alongside a lifelong interest in creativity and design, Martin channelled his experience into creating a business focused on helping other small enterprises grow online. 

A turning point came when Martin reached out to Business Gateway for support. Working with adviser Lee Briggs, he accessed one-to-one guidance covering business planning, marketing and routes to funding. Lee also supported Martin through the application process for a start-up grant, working through the paperwork together and helping to remove barriers created by ADHD-related challenges. 

The funding secured through Business Gateway support enabled Martin to invest in key growth opportunities, including a Chamber of Commerce membership and having a professional exhibition stand produced.

These investments helped raise the profile of Power On Web Design, leading to new connections, increased confidence and a growing pipeline of work driven largely by word-of-mouth referrals. 

As the business has developed, Martin has also benefited from wider Business Gateway support, including access to expert help, workshops and introductions to local business networks. The business has since relocated to a new office space, providing a more focused environment and supporting continued growth. 

Martin Kay, founder of Power On Web Design, said: “There was a point where everything felt uncertain, both personally and professionally. Power On Web Design came from a need to change direction and build something meaningful, even when I didn’t have a clear roadmap. 

“Business Gateway played a massive role in that journey. At a point when I was struggling to find direction, their support gave me confidence, structure and encouragement. The one-to-one guidance and help with funding made a real difference and helped me take that first proper step forward.” 

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Martin’s journey is a powerful example of resilience. He approached Business Gateway at a difficult time and was open about the challenges he was facing, which allowed us to tailor support around his needs. 

“Through one-to-one guidance, funding support and access to wider networks, Martin has built a business with strong foundations. Power On Web Design is already making an impact, and I look forward to supporting the next stage of its growth.” 

Business Gateway Edinburgh offers tailored support for neurodiverse founders, including dedicated advice, resources and specialist workshops designed to reflect different ways of thinking and working.

This includes practical sessions such as marketing support for neurodiverse minds, helping entrepreneurs build confidence, develop strategies that play to their strengths and access guidance in a supportive environment. 

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com 

Business Gateway launches its first-ever ‘Scottish Start-Up Month’

The national business support service is encouraging Midlothian locals to start their own business with the help of Business Gateway

Business Gateway, Scotland’s national business support service, has launched Scottish Start-Up Month, a nationwide campaign to celebrate Scotland’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Running throughout September, the campaign is designed to inspire and support anyone with a business idea to take their first step.

Business Gateway is encouraging aspiring Scottish entrepreneurs who are looking to start a business, or take their side-hustle further, to explore the wide range of free support available.

This support includes one-to-one guidance from experienced local business advisers, webinars, online resources, reviews of business plans as well as access to market research reports. Business Gateway’s services are available to businesses in Scotland at every stage in their journey.

One of Business Gateway’s key resources is its Planning To Start tool – an online questionnaire designed to help individuals assess their readiness to start a business. By answering a few quick questions, users can access a start-up toolkit filled with resources, advice, webinars and specific support for their business.

It also connects them directly with relevant Business Gateway services and local advisers, making it easier to access tailored support from day one.

Scottish start-up month is backed by Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes and is supported by a group of hero ambassadors – Gemma Stuart, founder of Gut Wealth; Nicola Johnston, director of Island Larder; Gary Claase, co-founder of Gecko Glazing; Dr Poonam Gupta OBE, CEO of PG Paper and Coinneach MacLeod, Hebridean Baker.

Along with a number of other early pledgers, each of the hero ambassadors has pledged their backing for the campaign to inspire the next generation of Scottish business owners.

The campaign also features the support of small business owners from across Scotland who are lending their voices and experiences, including Louise McMahon of Edinburgh Dyslexic Services and Kasia McGavigan of Blue Bee Mike.

Business Gateway is now calling on other established businesses and organisations across Scotland to pledge their support by using their own platforms to encourage emerging start-up businesses.  

Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer at Business Gateway, said: “Scotland has no shortage of ambition, creativity and drive, but taking that first step can often feel overwhelming. With Scottish Start-Up Month, we want to show that help is not only available but easy to access.

“Whether you’re starting a side project or planning your next big idea, we’re here to help turn that into something real. This collective backing will help spotlight the power of local enterprise and build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country.”

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Entrepreneurs and start-up companies are the backbone of our economy and it has been very encouraging to see a number of different sources indicating a significant increase in Scottish start-up companies being created.

“This indicates a confidence in the business environment and conditions being created to encourage any business-minded person who wants to start or develop their business idea to do so.

“Business founders of course need the right support at the right time to help ensure they can develop, grow and prosper.

“I would encourage anyone who is considering starting or scaling-up a business to get in touch with Business Gateway and the other organisations supporting Scotland’s entrepreneurial talent up and down the country to start a conversation, find out more and get the right help to ensure your business can start, scale and thrive.”

Hero ambassador and founder of Gut Wealth, Gemma Stuart, said: “Starting a business can be incredibly exciting, but it can also be isolating and overwhelming.

“Having access to advice, community and resources through Business Gateway made all the difference to me and my business and I’d encourage any small business owner to reach out for support. I’m proud to be part of a campaign that helps others see that they don’t have to do it alone.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

 https://www.bgateway.com

Businesses interested in pledging support for Scottish Start-Up Month can visit:

 https://www.bgateway.com/start-up-month 

for more information.

Edinburgh mum launches specialised clothing brand for children with disabilities with support from Business Gateway

An Edinburgh mum has launched a children’s clothing brand designed specifically for children with disabilities after receiving specialised start-up support from Business Gateway.

Blue Bee Mike, founded by Kasia McGavigan, offers sensory-considerate clothing that supports the needs of children with additional support requirements. It is the only Scottish brand that creates this type of clothing.

The business is named in honour of her son Michael, who lives with autism, and inspired Kasia to create adaptive designs that combine comfort, dignity and practical use. She tests out any designs on Michael.

Through her experience as a mum to Michael, Kasia has seen first-hand how difficult it can be to find clothing for children with additional needs. She spotted this gap in the market and decided to start creating the clothes herself in 2024.

The idea began with the development of a specially designed onesie, created to ease everyday challenges for both children and carers. The onesie is zipped at the back to prevent the child from taking it off if they become distressed and also allows access for a feeding tube if needed.

Every product is designed with comfort, functionality and joy in mind, with the children’s needs at the heart. The clothes allow children to move freely and not be inhibited by their clothing. Kasia’s parents were tailors, so she grew up watching them create clothing and began helping as she got older.

Kasia hopes her brand not only supports children, but also raises awareness about the importance of inclusive clothing design.

As a full-time carer, Kasia had a vision for her business but needed help bringing it to life. She remembered a friend who had worked with Business Gateway in the past and decided to approach them.

Since June 2024, she has worked closely with Business Gateway to develop her idea into a viable business – receiving one-to-one support from Business Gateway adviser Lee Briggs to break down key tasks, prioritise actions and build confidence as she launched her brand.

Kasia has engaged with various Business Gateway workshops, including sessions on marketing, finance and starting a business. With expert guidance, she launched her website and recently accessed Expert Help support to refine her marketing strategy and explore opportunities in international markets.

Kasia McGavigan, founder of Blue Bee Mike said: “Starting Blue Bee Mike has been a deeply personal journey.

“As a full-time carer for my son Michael, I understand how challenging it can be to find clothing that’s both comfortable and practical for children with additional needs. I wanted to create something that genuinely helps families like ours -something designed with love and real-life experience at its heart.

“Business Gateway has given me the support, structure and encouragement I needed to turn my idea into a reality. From helping me work out what steps to take and when, to giving me the confidence to launch my website and start sharing my products, their advice has been invaluable.

“I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve achieved so far and excited about growing the business to support even more families.”

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser said: “Kasia is truly inspiring. She’s humble, focused and incredibly determined, balancing her caring responsibilities with launching a meaningful business from the ground up.

“Her ability to take on advice, stay organised and put everything into practice has been exceptional. Blue Bee Mike is already making a difference, and we’re proud to have supported her on this journey.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit: 

https://bgateway.com.

Blast Boxing keeps community fighting fit with Business Gateway support

An Edinburgh start-up is making a major impact in communities after accessing support from Business Gateway. 

Blast Boxing, a community interest company, aims to improve mental and physical wellbeing through accessible boxing classes and one-to-one sessions. Designed to help locals get fit, have fun and learn core boxing skills, the sessions take place in a welcoming and supportive environment. 

Founded by Kevin Matthews, the organisation offers a range of affordable classes for children and adults, along with drop-in social events and PE sessions delivered through Edinburgh’s Active Schools programme.  

Blast Boxing also hosts specialist wellbeing sessions, including ‘Box N’ Blether’, a popular format combining one hour of physical activity with one hour of open conversation, as well as parent-and-toddler classes and wellbeing sessions for both men and women. 

Working with a range of established organisations and charities in Edinburgh, the team offer physical and emotional support to residents in disadvantaged communities. As well as boxing, the team brings years of experience and qualifications in youth work, community engagement, health and fitness. 

Having previously worked in the community as a pupil support assistant and youth worker, Kevin saw firsthand the positive impact exercise had on mental health. At the age of 30, he pursued a qualification in sports coaching, setting the foundation for his vision of a community-focused fitness organisation. 

Blast Boxing has recently worked alongside charities Score Scotland and Spartans, to support young people and adults in the area through introductory sessions, mentorship and dedicated classes and is currently running sessions with West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre. 

Kevin reached out to Business Gateway in January 2024 to turn his vision into reality. He has been supported throughout his start-up journey by local adviser Lee Briggs, who has provided expert one-to-one guidance, business planning assistance, and advice on business structure, legislation, and community engagement.

Business Gateway has also helped Kevin access funding opportunities and connect with local groups, enabling Blast Boxing to thrive. 

Lee’s guidance has played a key role in Kevin’s journey to grow Blast Boxing into a thriving enterprise, allowing the business to make a meaningful and lasting impact across Edinburgh. 

Kevin Matthews, Blast Boxing founder, said: “Business Gateway has been instrumental in helping me bring my vision for Blast Boxing to life.  

“The support and guidance I’ve received from Lee has given me the confidence and knowledge to shape Blast Boxing into an initiative that serves the community and makes a real difference on the lives of those involved.” 

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Having supported Kevin since day one, it has been fantastic to see his passion and dedication translate into real, positive change for the community. 

“Blast Boxing is a brilliant example of how the right support and determination can create something truly impactful.” 

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com. 

Edinburgh whisky-coffee business brewing up a storm thanks to Business Gateway support

A local Edinburgh business is brewing up success with its unique coffee blend after accessing support from Business Gateway.

Georgia and Grant Fraser launched Cortino in August last year, blending their passions of coffee and Scottish whisky to create one-of-a-kind barrel aged coffee, delivering distinct and exciting flavours as they aim to change the traditional coffee experience.

Cortino’s coffee beans, which are sourced from Brazilian farms, rest in whisky barrels sourced from across Scotland, infusing them with a rich and smooth depth of flavour. The beans are then roasted locally in Edinburgh, with every batch of coffee offering a distinct profile.

With backgrounds in sustainable product design, Georgia and Grant are determined to ensure Cortino delivers environmentally conscious coffee, using sustainable packaging and partnering with responsible suppliers.

Throughout their start-up journey, local Business Gateway adviser, Lee Briggs, has supported Cortino, providing one-to-one support and advice across business planning, marketing insights and routes to funding. Lee has also introduced Georgia and Grant with local contacts, and signposted events and scaling opportunities.

Having enjoyed a successful launch last year, with Cortino’s coffee proving popular at a host of local markets and trade shows, Georgia and Grant now have their sights set on a year of growth in 2025, aiming to scale up the business and bring their unique brew to a new audience, with a number of exciting whisky collaborations in the works.

This has been made possible thanks to support from Business Gateway, which helped them to successfully apply for grant funding worth £4,000 which will be put towards marketing activities and trade show events as the pair gear up for a bumper year.

Georgia Fraser, co-founder, Cortino, said: “Business Gateway has provided fantastic support that has allowed us to start Cortino on the best possible footing.

“Lee has been an invaluable resource for us. His insight and connections have enabled us to access funding and develop a robust strategy for scaling up this year. He has always been on hand to answer any questions or guide us to where we need to get to.”

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Georgia and Grant’s passion to create a unique new product is a brilliant example to anyone looking to start up their own business.

“Their drive and determination to make their product the best it can be and deliver it sustainably by making the most of the local knowledge has seen their efforts rewarded greatly.

“We look forward to supporting the team as they gear up for an exciting year in 2025.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.

To discover more about Cortino’s unique blends, visit:

 https://www.drinkcortino.com/.

Scotland’s first female graduate network launched 

Scotland’s first female graduate network launches as fully structured organisation with support from Business Gateway

An Edinburgh University graduate has launched Scotland’s first female graduate and young professional network as a fully structured organisation after accessing support from Business Gateway.  

Annabel Blackwood first launched Girl Grads as Girl Grads Run in September 2023, aiming to create a running community for female graduates and young professionals living in the capital.  

Met with an extremely positive reception, and having secured over 15 run club volunteers, it rapidly evolved into a vibrant community. Thanks to this, Annabel decided to rebrand to Girl Grads in July 2024 to broaden the organisation’s mission: to connect and support women through wellness, social and community engagement.   

Annabel has been operating Girl Grads as a passion project whilst training to be a solicitor. In September last year, Annabel made use of Business Gateway’s Planning To Start tool to see about the best structure for the community group.   

She was then connected with a local business adviser, Lee Briggs, who provided support with mentoring, and how to develop a business plan for Girl Grads. Lee was also able to introduce Annabel to relevant partner organisations.  

With support from Business Gateway, Annabel has now decided on a clear legal structure for Girl Grads. She has also identified opportunities for growth in 2025 thanks to careful planning of promotion and awareness events.   

Annabel now plans to also support her Girl Grads community of over 2,000 women with professional, skills and advice-based events, tailored to graduates and young professionals. In 2024, she collaborated with brands such as ASICS and Graham’s The Family Dairy to promote Girl Grads’ activities and is now looking forward to continuing collaborating with brands and businesses who support her mission. 

Annabel Blackwood, founder and owner, Girl Grads, said: “After graduating from Edinburgh University in 2023, I found that I missed the social network that being a student provided. I decided to set up a social, pace-inclusive run club to meet like-minded people and to have a group of friends to run with on dark evenings.   

“I really couldn’t have imagined what Girl Grads has evolved into since we first launched. I’ve loved building a female community in Edinburgh and helping each other to navigate life in our 20s.  

“I’d like to thank Business Gateway for their fantastic support over the last few months. It’s been so rewarding to work with Lee, who really understood my vision for Girl Grads. I can’t wait for what’s to come this year.” 

Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “It’s great to work with someone like Annabel who is so passionate about making a difference and supporting women in the community.

“Girl Grads has proved to be extremely popular and I’ve no doubt it will continue to grow in the months ahead.” 

To find out how Business Gateway can help your business, visit https://bgateway.com.  

Business Gateway announces plans for second ‘Connections & Conversations’ event for start-ups

Business Gateway West Lothian has announced plans for its second ‘connections and conversations’ free ‘start up’ event on Thursday, 5th September at Whitburn Partnership Centre, from 5-7pm, to highlight the support available to help people in the local community get their business idea off the ground.

The ‘Simplifying the Business Start Up Process’ event, which follows on from the success of the first one in February this year, will include presentations from a team of Business Gateway West Lothian advisers, covering everything from planning and financial advice to marketing and HR support.

Various local businesses who have received valuable support in their start up journey will also be attending to share their personal stories in a panel discussion followed by a Q&A, including Paul Stark who founded Livingston-based Sustainable Sport in March.

The company provides expert consultancy support to help organisations within the sports industry achieve their long-term goals whilst minimising their environmental impact.

The support he received included guidance on the different types of legal structures for his businesses, allowing him to select the most appropriate option and also advice on how to source start up funding to assist with initial capital expenditure costs, allowing him to get off to a great start, efficiently and professionally. 

Paul said: “Business Gateway was instrumental in helping me set up my business. From supplying information and templates, to providing access to funding, they were with me every step of the way. 

“I’m delighted to say that due to the solid foundations that were put in place with the support of the Business Gateway team, Sustainable Sport is now going from strength to strength.”

Claire McGurk, founder of Canine Bodywork Clinic, which provides canine hydrotherapy and clinical massage services will also be talking about the support she has received for her Livingston-based business, which launched in January this year.

This includes help completing a business plan, with detailed financial projections, assistance with funding applications, advice when deciding on the structure of the company, and guidance and signposting on planning consents. 

The support enabled Claire to secure the appropriate funding to support the start up of the business, establish a clear and realistic set of financial projections, and create a strategy to help the business achieve its first three year’s objectives.

Claire said: “Without the expert help and advice from Business Gateway, the business plan for the clinic would not be as robust as it is. The financial projections for my first three years were a huge help for me to set my longer-term goals.  

Help and support through achieving funding for the business was also a huge boost on getting the business off the ground. The support has been incredible, and I am genuinely so grateful.” 

Former teacher, Susan Grieve and pupil support worker Ben Fazakerley, who founded Positive Outcomes LP this month, will also be sharing the story of their start up journey, which began in March this year.

The company, which specialises in offering afterschool care, holiday day care, respite, tutoring, and support for home-schooling to families with children with ASN, is based in Mid Calder Institute Hall Monday to Thursday and on Friday’s at The Polbeth Hub.

Susan said: “We have had an excellent experience with Business Gateway West Lothian. 

“Our advisor Jordan McDonald gave us the confidence and encouragement to push forward with our business. We were given expert advice and support throughout our whole journey. 

“Jordan helped us to start creating our business plan and was fundamental in getting us some funding which helped us greatly with start up costs. 

“We have received a first-class service and are still receiving support from Jordan, even after our business has successfully started up.”

There will also be opportunities for all attendees to network at the event.

Linzi Winton, Team Leader at Business Gateway West Lothian, said: “We are really looking forward to another ‘Simplifying the Business Start Up Process’ event on the 5th September, aimed at anyone who is thinking about starting a business or at the early stages and could benefit from a helping hand.

“It will be a great opportunity for attendees to hear from our guest speakers who will be sharing their start up journeys and the support they’ve received from our advisers, who will also be at the event to highlight the fantastic free resources available at Business Gateway West Lothian to help get your new venture off to a great start.”

Edinburgh bakery business creates a buzz with insect bakes following support from Business Gateway

The Insect Café won in the ‘individual cake’ category at the National Scottish Baker of the Year Awards 2024/25

An Edinburgh bakery business that uses insect protein in its baking is looking to expand its operations after the owner accessed specialist support from Business Gateway.

The Insect Café was launched by Nahla Mahmoud in October 2023. Its products which use four varieties of insects in the baking process, range from nutty cricket brownies to spicy mealworm cakes. Keen to promote the nutritional and sustainable benefits of insects, Nahla’s bakes are high in protein and have a low carbon footprint, using UK suppliers for the insects themselves.

Using no butter, no preservatives and no artificial ingredients, the range of baked goods mean are high in nutritional value. Nahla aims to make nutritious food accessible and affordable.

Nahla sells her bakes at the Grassmarket Market in Edinburgh, which takes place on the first and third Saturday of every month.

She is now looking to increase the number of locations where she sells her baking, including potentially looking at premises for a café. She’s had a positive reaction to her bakes and is naturally met with curiosity, so she can let people know the benefits. She has a lot of returning customers, including those coming to her after a run or cycle.

Thanks to the popular reception for her bakes, Nahla has now been able to give up her full-time job in International Development to focus fully on The Insect Café. Her recipes are inspired by recipes from her childhood and her travels, as well as experimenting with new flavours and combinations.

The Insect Café won in the ‘individual cake’ category for their Larva cocktail ball at the National Scottish Baker of the Year Awards 2024/25 and was also nominated in the Customer Choice category.

Through Business Gateway, Nahla has received support from local adviser, Jeff Hume. Jeff has provided 1:1 support to Nahla, and signposted her to seminars and webinars on marketing, business planning, growth planning, market research and employment.

Through Business Gateway, Nahla was also signposted to a start-up grant from the City of Edinburgh Council which helped her set-up the business. She was also able to take on her first two members of staff, summer interns, thanks to the support.

Looking to the future, Nahla plans to make use of Business Gateway’s Research Service to identity new locations to exhibit at, as well as helping Nahla with looking for an ideal premises to set up a permanent café.

Nahla Mahmoud, owner of The Insect Café, said: “My Business Gateway adviser Jeff has been a fantastic support in setting up my business and helping me with growth. The whole service is a brilliant support.

“It’s an unusual business concept but is one I truly believe in, and I’ve had a lot of happy returning customers who see the health benefits and appreciate the delicious bakes.”

Jeff Hume, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Working with someone who is as passionate as Nahla is about her business has been fantastic.

“She has worked hard to build her business and the fact she is seeing such progress and can look to the future for her brand is really exciting and shows her enthusiasm.

“We’ve been glad to be able to support her on her journey and to provide her with specialist advice that’s been key to growing her business.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit:

https://bgateway.com.

Business is blooming for UK’s only fully electric-powered gardening business thanks to support from Business Gateway

The UK’s only fully electric-powered gardening business has been able to make new hires and grow its business operations after accessing support from Business Gateway.

The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh, which offers a complete garden maintenance service delivered on cargo bikes by a team of independent gardeners, was founded in 2023 by Callum Ross, who wanted to combine his talent for gardening with his desire to be more sustainable.

Callum, who previously worked as an Operations Manager in the events industry, was keen to reinvent the way gardeners operate in Scotland’s capital city.

The business uses cargo bikes to travel and to transport materials and exclusively uses electric power tools. While the tools are more expensive than traditional petrol-powered tools, they are more sustainable, which chimes with the overall principle of the business.

As well as its team of freelance gardeners, who are largely experienced horticulturalists, The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh is also hoping to employ young gardeners who may be new to the trade but who may not have their driving licence.

The team has worked with local organisations Spokes, Sustrans, and the Cargobike Movement to increase their knowledge of cargo bikes.

Looking for some inspiration on growing his business, Callum attended a Business Gateway-run Meet the Investors session where he was able to rehearse pitching his business and find out about the work Business Gateway does. It was this that inspired him to contact Business Gateway, and through that he met his adviser Jeff Hume.

Business Gateway has supported The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh in a number of ways, including helping them to employ an Operations Manager using Edinburgh’s Employer Recruitment Incentives (EERI) Scheme, using the research service to identify possible collaborations and improving their use of social media.

Callum Ross, Founder of The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh said: “I’ve found that having a personal contact in Jeff has been so helpful, and I’m safe in the knowledge that he can give us solid advice.

“Business Gateway has also supported us in applying for grant funding which has been so helpful to help keep our operations afloat.

“As a new business, it’s invaluable to have the support of Business Gateway and to know that they’re on the other end of a phone if you need.”

Jeff Hume, Business Gateway adviser said: “It has been fantastic to support Callum and the team to create this unique idea and watch it come to life. They’ve been able to determine a great niche for their company and it’ll be wonderful to see it bloom into something even more special.”

To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit https://bgateway.com.