Set up business and grow in Scotland
With valuable business opportunities and attractive investment returns, Scotland has the perfect blend of talent, innovation, financial and renewable resources to help your business prosper. A green and sustainable choice for foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade.
Scotland's impressive FDI performance
1st outside London
More overseas businesses chose Scotland than any other UK region outside London in 2020.
3 cities in the UK's top 10
Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen all feature in the UK’s top 10 locations for FDI.
Top for digital tech
Digital technology, agri-food and business services industries are leading the way for Scotland's FDI projects.
Action on climate change
The transition to net zero emissions opens huge opportunities to innovate and grow your business in Scotland. We all need to take action now. Find out how Scotland is playing its part.
Inward investment in Scotland
In May, Edinburgh will host the 2022 World Forum for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). There will be talks, training and networking events. The event will also showcase Scotland as a world-class investment location.
How we can help
If you’re thinking of setting up in Scotland or trading with us, we can offer the support you need. We can help you access funding, find the right staff, make the right contacts and more.
One-to-one support
Scottish Development International has more than 30 offices around the world with our staff ready to help you set up and grow your business in Scotland. A cost-effective home with the skills you need, along with opportunities to expand and further support to grow globally. You'll benefit from Scotland's welcoming business environment, diverse industries, vibrant cities and our stunning landscapes too.
And, if you’re looking to buy quality goods or expertise from Scottish companies, whether it be digital expertise or high-quality food produce, we can help connect you to these opportunities. Scotland's long tradition of tech innovation is matched by our excellent infrastructure of suppliers, industries and networks, making us your natural trading partner.
Why Scotland?
Green investment
£3 billion of green investment opportunities in projects and companies coming on stream in Scotland by 2022.
Capital investment
If you’re looking for returns that outperform most of the UK and business-friendly policies, there’s never been a better time to invest in Scotland's real estate.
Trade opportunities
Looking for suppliers of quality goods and services or need help sourcing a tech solution? From food and drink, and renewables to digital health, we can connect you to Scotland's supply chains.
People and skills
We can help you find the right talent, skills and training to grow your business in Scotland.
Cost of living
Scotland is a great place to locate your business. It's less expensive to live and work in Scotland than cities like London, Zurich, Paris and Dublin.
Supportive environment
With easy access to government, businesses, universities, research and innovation centres of excellence, we can help you make the right connections to prosper in Scotland.
COVID-19 update and Scotland's green recovery
As we witness the coronavirus pandemic impacting businesses, lives and communities around the world, Scotland remains open for business. We’re ready to help businesses and investors in Scotland navigate potential challenges, safeguard jobs and prosper as part of our green recovery.
Latest business news from Scotland
Stay up to date with how businesses like yours are making the most of the opportunities, talent and support available in Scotland.