Midlothian

Our Business Support Tool is a great place to begin. It takes just 10 minutes to complete and provides you with an instant toolkit with key resources & information. We'll then connect you with a member of the team at our local office for further support.

Our website offers a business plan guide and template to download when you’re ready, market reports and research, as well as handy online guides, articles and video tutorials. Plus, we have a great range of webinars to hone your start-up skills – from writing a business plan to marketing on a budget.

With our help, you could be in business sooner than you imagined.

Whether you’re looking to take on premises or learn more about digital marketing, we can help you take the next step. Get started by taking 10 minutes to complete our Business Support tool and get a personalised dashboard of online resources and webinars.

We can also offer 1-1 advice at a time that works for you. Together, you and your business adviser can create a strategic action plan to help you achieve your goals.

Our online resources and webinars can help you learn new skills, create opportunities and gain confidence. From HR to restructuring, innovation and digital marketing - we can help. And if specialist input is required, we can connect you to other sources of support.

To find out more and check eligibility, please visit the Locate in Midlothian website.

Anyone starting a registered childminding business in Midlothian is eligible to apply. To find out more visit the Midlothian Council website.

These include:

• Planning permission – For advice and guidance on planning and building issues, contact the Planning Helpdesk
• Non-domestic rates - Find out the business rates charges for your business and if you are eligible for the Small Business Bonus Scheme by visiting the Midlothian Council website.
• Licensing and Regulations - Find out if you need a license and how to apply. Visit the Midlothian Council website.
• Environmental Health - Assistance in the registration of food premises and compliance with food safety regulations. Contact Environmental Health.
• Trading Standards - Complying with Trading Standard regulations. Find out more on the Midlothian Council website.
• Sourcing business property - Find information about Council commercial properties on the market.
• Midlothian Business Directory – Add your free business listing and search for local suppliers.
• Midlothian Business Green Pledge – Show your commitment to operating in a sustainable way by signing the pledge.

For more information on these services, visit the Midlothian Council website.

Operated by Women’s Enterprise Scotland, the Women's Business Centre website is free to access and offers dedicated, needs-based content on starting and growing a business, including stories, encouragement and top tips from leading business owners across Scotland.

Our advisers can help you look at your business challenges and then help you make the next practical steps. Along with that we can introduce you to PACE – Partnership Action for Continuing Employment.