Moray Business Gateway’s support for local businesses welcomed

Between April 2023 and September 2024, Business Gateway Moray helped launch 158 new business start-ups, which created 162 full-time jobs. The service handled 897 business enquiries, including 352 from existing businesses looking for further support. This assistance has strengthened Moray’s economy and supported local regeneration efforts.

To enhance business support, two contracts were secured in May 2023 to provide specialist advice and workshops. Over the period, 10 in-person workshops were attended by 117 participants, alongside 12 days of specialist advisory support. Additional guidance through the Moray Economic Recovery Plan included 25 days of one-to-one procurement advice and four workshops benefiting 35 attendees.

The Business Growth Programme, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has also helped local micro-businesses expand into new markets, adopt new products, and boost revenue. Meanwhile, the Moray Gift Card scheme continues to support local spending, with £163,590 in sales since 2021 with 265 businesses now accepting the card, helping to retain spending within Moray’s economy.

Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, noted the vital role of Business Gateway in providing tailored support for local businesses: “This report highlights the positive impact of the Business Gateway service in Moray. By supporting business start-ups, growth initiatives, and specialist advice programmes, we’re helping to strengthen the local economy and create new opportunities for residents and businesses alike.

“The support provided by Business Gateway has led to increased employment, enhanced business productivity, and greater investment in the region, contributing significantly to Moray’s wider regeneration efforts.”
For more information, visit the Moray Council website.