Business Gateway Scottish Borders marks 1,000th client with £15m turnover impact
Business Gateway Scottish Borders has supported its 1,000th client since the launch of its partnership with South of Scotland Enterprise, helping new businesses across the region to generate an estimated £15 million in turnover.
The 1000th client was The Scottish Cheese Academy, based in West Linton, who provide certified cheese education, hospitality training and cultural tourism experiences designed to raise the profile of Scottish cheese both at home and abroad.
The Business Gateway service is funded by Scottish Borders Council, with SBC launching a strategic partnership with us on 1 April 2021 to deliver the service to support new businesses to start up and grow in the region.
As well as supporting 1,000 start‑ups to generate £15m in turnover, 15% of these new businesses have involved young people and 60% have been female‑led.
More than 70 enquiries have been referred to SOSE’s Pathways programme, supporting women and under‑represented groups to develop early‑stage ideas.
Business Gateway Scottish Borders
Business Gateway Scottish Borders offers one‑to‑one adviser support, start‑up guidance, workshops, digital skills development and tailored growth planning.
The Scottish Cheese Academy
The Scottish Cheese Academy was founded by Tanny Gill, a World Cheese Awards judge, and connects cheese producers, the hospitality sector and enthusiasts.
Mr Gill also received support from the Pathways programme.
Mr Gill said:
“The support from Business Gateway Scottish Borders has been a real game‑changer for our growth.
“We have received expert guidance and gained the clarity and confidence needed to grow The Scottish Cheese Academy.”
Russel Griggs, Chair of South of Scotland Enterprise, said:
“SOSE and Business Gateway Scottish Borders have been providing a tailored, integrated and agile service over the past five years, in partnership with Scottish Borders Council.
“Reaching 1,000 clients is a fantastic milestone for Business Gateway Scottish Borders.
“It is a clear sign of the ambition across the region and a testament to how successful joining up our services for businesses and entrepreneurs has been.”
Councillor Scott Hamilton, SBC Executive Member for Economic Growth and Developing the Borders, said:
“Business Gateway has been supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in the Borders for decades, under various delivery arrangements.
“The current partnership between the Council and SOSE is ensuring that high quality, joined up support is available, and that continues to pay dividends for those who access it, whether through workshops or individualised support and advice.
“If you have a business idea, or run an existing business and want to grow or improve your skills in certain areas, then please reach out to Business Gateway colleagues to get free support.”
Councillor Gail Macgregor, Chair of the Business Gateway Board and COSLA Environment & Economy Spokesperson, added:
"We're very proud that The Scottish Cheese Academy marks our 1,000th client since launching our partnership with South of Scotland Enterprise back in 2021.
“This milestone reflects the ambition of entrepreneurs across the Scottish Borders and the strength of collaborative business support in the region.
"Supporting innovative ventures like Scottish Cheese Academy highlights the diversity and quality of businesses we work with every day.
“We look forward to continuing our close partnership with SOSE and Scottish Borders Council to help even more local enterprises start, grow and succeed.”