Growing a Business

Growing a Business

Caithness and North Sutherland can be an ideal destination for those looking to expand an existing business into new markets. The region offers access to a highly-skilled local workforce and supply chain, a range of commercial and industrial property suitable for all sizes, and a supportive environment with plenty of advice and support available to help take that next step.

Advice and support

Caithness Chamber of Commerce is the lead voice of business in the area and is well placed to help businesses of any size as they expand into new markets. The Chamber offers access to a network of over 200 local businesses, and its range of events held throughout the year are a great opportunity to meet new contacts.

Chamber membership also gives access to a range of member benefits including regional and national promotional opportunities, and as part of the Scottish Chambers network is well-placed to offer members access to a national and global network of contacts.

As the lead enterprise agency for the area, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is set up to advise and support those looking to grow their business. With a local HIE office in Thurso as well as a range of services offered from the An Lochran campus in Inverness, Caithness and Sutherland is an ideal location for those looking to access support from HIE.

Finance

Expanding a business is an exciting time but one which can take considerable investment. Caithness and Sutherland has a range of financial support available to businesses looking to take the next step.

The North Highland Regeneration Fund (NHRF) has been established by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority to provide loan funding and can offer loans of up to £50,000 to support businesses in the region looking to expand.

As the lead economic development agency for the region, Highlands and Islands Enterprise can offer a range of support and investment to businesses looking to grow.

Exporting and International Trade

Caithness and North Sutherland has a proud history of exporting top quality goods and services all over the world. For many businesses with growth ambitions, exporting and developing international markets is a key route to success. We know this can often involve new complexities and challenges, and for businesses in Caithness and North Sutherland looking to take this exciting step, there is plenty of help to get them started.

As part of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce network, Caithness Chamber of Commerce is able to help businesses in the region access an unparalleled range of international trade support services. Recognised globally as an internationally leading business-to-business network, Scottish Chambers is working in partnership with Scottish Government to develop a range of International Trade Missions for Scottish companies.

The Chamber network is also a leading provider of specialist international trade documentation and certification, and through its partnership with Inverness Chamber International, Caithness Chamber of Commerce members are able to get exclusive discounts on a range of documents.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise has a range of support available for businesses looking to start exporting for the first time, including training, an Export Advisory Service, and even access to Go Global grants of up to £5,000 to help businesses expand into new export markets.

Scottish Development International is Scotland’s trade and inward investment agency, here to help businesses around the world discover what Scotland can do for them. Through a range of initiatives including the GlobalScot network and their European Innovation and Investment Hubs they can help your business develop and access new markets worldwide.

The Scottish EU Funding Portal and Enterprise Europe Network offer a range of services to businesses looking to export, including opportunities from across Europe and opportunities to build partnerships internationally.

Caithness Chamber of Commerce
Naver Business Centre
Naver House
Naver Road
Thurso
KW14 7QA

Telephone: 01847 890076
Email: enquiries@investcaithness.com