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Business in Scotland

Scotland is the perfect place to grow your business, based on the strength of our world-leading innovation, talent, ease of investment and quality of life. And this has inspired global companies such as Sumitomo, GSK and JP Morgan – together with aspiring startups – to think big here. Find out why Scotland is right for you.

Why Scotland?

Discover why Scotland is a record-breaking investment and trade location, with excellent credentials to help your business realise bigger and brighter ambitions.
Scotland's foreign direct investment (FDI) was double that of the UK's last year. It has also been the top-performing FDI region in the UK, outside London, for nine consecutive years.*
Scotland is primed for investment, growth and trade opportunities thanks to its world-class talent and innovation in both established and high growth industries.
*2024 EY Attractiveness Survey

  • Sustainable economy

    Learn why your business will benefit from a sustainable economy underpinned by fair work practices, inclusive prosperity and a transition to net zero.      

  • Innovation in Scotland

    Your organisation will thrive in Scotland. It offers the best conditions to drive innovation in your business, especially in high growth industries such as energy transition, software and IT, and space.

  • People, skills and recruitment

    The success of your business depends on having skilled and talented people. Scotland has low employee turnover and is a giant in academia, all backed by strong talent support services.

  • Infrastructure and connectivity

    As an investment location, Scotland will connect your organisation with markets, support and high growth sectors through our joined-up infrastructure. This will give you a head start as you forge ahead. 

  • A lower-cost way to do business

    Discover why reports suggest Scotland could be a less costly location in which to live, work and run your business, as compared to cities such as London, Zurich, Paris and Dublin.

  • Companies we've helped

    Discover why ambitious companies like yours choose Scotland to innovate, expand and excel – all with the help of expert support tailored to their businesses.

Bigger opportunities, bigger business  

Scotland is full of investment and trade opportunities. They will enable your business and its people to excel in ways you may never have imagined possible. You'll be positioned at the forefront of new and exciting industries and markets, with opportunities to grow in a country that offers so much. 

  • Find your growth industry

    Discover opportunities for your business across Scotland's innovative high growth industries. These include space, energy transition, digital and technology, software and IT, and consumer industries.

  • Work in Scotland

    Take your career and your team to the next level when you invest in Scotland. Check out our practical information on visas, working practices and benefits. This will make it easier for you and your colleagues to find your feet as you embark on exciting careers.   

  • Locations for your business

    You're spoilt for choice when it comes to business locations in Scotland. From commercially-focussed cities to industrious business parks, there's a place to help drive your business forward, whatever your sector.

How we can help you

Discover how we'll assist you – from financial support, to help with making connections to invest in or trade with Scotland. We look forward to working with you on our journey together to set up and scale your business. 

  • Financial and tax incentives

    Explore Scottish, UK and European financial and tax relief schemes. These are key to getting your business off the ground and sustaining it – so you can go from strength to strength. 

  • Setting up your business

    Find practical guidance on setting up your business in Scotland, including information on taxes, insurance, immigration and more. We’ll help you source investment opportunities and locations and contact potential partners.

  • Expand and scale your business

    Discover how we'll help you grow and scale your business in Scotland. You'll have access to support including funding, research, a skilled and talented workforce, events, networks and more. 

How to set up a company in Scotland

We'll give you useful information to help you set up your business in Scotland. You'll need to consider important aspects such as choosing a company structure, getting the right insurance and finding an accountant and solicitor.

Want to talk with one of our advisers?

If you have any questions or want to speak with an adviser, we're always ready to help.

Phone: +44 300 013 2734opens in a new window 

Read our latest news stories

Get insight on why Scotland is a great place to grow your business, from news on pioneering sectors to studies of companies' ambitions here.