Business Gateway Orkney Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Business Gateway part of the Council and if so, why is it based at Queen Street?
A: Business Gateway is a nationally operated Government organisation, run by the Council. It forms part of the Development and Infrastructure Service within the Council, which includes the Economic Development Function. Both Business Gateway and the Council’s Economic Development function are based at 14 Queen Street alongside our partner development agency, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) Orkney. This forms a one-stop business development centre.
Q: What type of businesses can use the service?
A: Any type of business can use the service, ranging from pre-start up enquiries, small business start-ups, or in the early years as they grow, to existing businesses looking to grow and develop.
Q: How do I use the service?
A: There are 3 ways you can access Business Gateway Support: via the website (see related sites) where you can chat live with a business adviser, or complete a contact form; via the local office in Kirkwall; or via the National Enquiry Service. You can contact the local office by telephoning 01856 886666, by email: business.gateway@orkney.gov.uk or in person at 14 Queen Street, Kirkwall. You can contact the National Enquiry Service by telephoning 0845 609 6611. Your enquiry will be assessed and you will be informed of workshops and may be allocated a business adviser.
Q: Do you offer courses?
A: Yes, we run regular free training courses (see related link) on various subjects as well as offering one to one adviser support where required. See details of upcoming workshops in the Related Downloads section of the Business Gateway Workshop section.
Q: What kind of business advice can you provide?
A: The type of advice really depends on what stage you are at. Business Gateway offers a wide range of advice that can be tailored to suit your needs. For instance if you are looking to start up in business we can offer advice on everything from financial planning to researching potential markets. Whatever stage you are at with your business plan – even if you don’t have one yet – you can speak to us, in confidence. Similarly we can offer ongoing support to help your business grow and develop. You can meet with one of our Business Advisers to discuss what support is right for you.
Q: Where will I meet an adviser?
A: Your adviser will arrange meet you at a mutually convenient venue and time. There are meeting rooms available at Business Gateway in Kirkwall if required.
Q: Will my enquiry be treated in a confidential manner?
A: All enquiries to Business Gateway are treated confidentially. Client details are not passed to other agencies without prior consent.
Q: Do you offer funding?
A: No. Business Gateway is an advice service and does not provide funding but we do have a wide knowledge of the grant and loan funding available elsewhere. We can signpost any relevant available sources of funding for your business. To help you find funding for your start-up business or to develop your business in Orkney, the Council has a Financial Assistance and Advice section on the website that you may find useful. Also the Business Gateway website has a Finance and Grants section with lots of useful information about finance and grants for businesses across the country.
Q: How much does the service cost?
A: All Business Gateway services are completely free.
If your question is not answered above, please email business.gateway@orkney.gov.uk with your enquiry.
