Invest in West Lothian - April Newsletter
Hello and welcome to the April edition of the Invest in West Lothian newsletter! In our newsletter, we will be sharing the latest news stories, funding opportunities, and events for businesses in West Lothian.
Here at Invest in West Lothian, we are committed to helping businesses in West Lothian grow by providing confidential and impartial advice, highlighting funding opportunities, and sharing helpful resources. We can help new and established businesses that are currently based in West Lothian, or are looking to relocate to the area. You can learn more about the support we offer by visiting www.investinwestlothian.com .
Celebrating Good News Stories in West Lothian
Simplify Your Business Vision
The Business Gateway West Lothian team recently hosted a successful ‘Simplifying the Business Start Up Process’ event for new and aspiring business owners in West Lothian. The event held at West Lothian College on Thursday, the 29th of February, covered everything from strategic business planning and building a strong brand, to sustainable practices and financial support. A panel also took place with local business owners Sarah-Jane Watson (Watson Estate Agency), Claudia Willunat (Claudia’s K9 Coats), and Lewis Gold (Geeza Pizza) discussing their start up journeys. The team received excellent feedback from attendees, who felt more confident with their journey to self-employment.
You can read the full story here.
Funding for Businesses in West Lothian
The Invest in West Lothian team have extensive experience of preparing funding packages for local businesses of all sizes. Each month, we will highlight a new funding opportunity that is currently available to eligible businesses in the area.
Low Carbon Grant
With Earth Day 2024 approaching, this month we are highlighting our Low Carbon Grant.
With this grant, eligible West Lothian businesses could receive funding of up to £8,000 towards strategic business change which can evidence a clear link to low emissions. This funding can be used towards projects that help businesses: overcome barriers in their net zero journey, implement strategic changes identified from consultancy support, promote their ‘green credentials,’ and facilitate pivoting into a new market within the net zero landscape.
To qualify for this grant, a business must:
- Be based in West Lothian
- Employ a minimum of 5 staff
- Have been trading for at least one year
- Have growth potential over 3 years
- Have taken steps to, or have already completed, a carbon footprint calculation
You can learn more about the Low Carbon Grant and apply here.
Upcoming Events
We are delighted to be hosting the following free event in April:
Build Your Brand with Networking
Attending networking events is a great way to make valuable new connections and raise the profile of your business. At this free in person event, networking expert Michelle Brown will be sharing tips on how attendees can improve their networking skills and build strong relationships. This will be taking place on Tuesday, the 23rd of April, from 9:30am – 11:30am at Cafebar 1912 in Bathgate.
To learn more and book your free space, please click here.