Startup pack
Banner image

Start Your Own Business in Aberdeenshire

Free start-up resources and local contacts

Overview

If you are thinking about starting a business in Aberdeenshire or would like to grow your existing business, you have come to the right place!

Start Your Own Business in Aberdeenshire contains masses of free resources and the useful information that will help give your venture the best chance of success. It also highlights local organisations who offer friendly business advice and services that you need.

We have been helping start-ups and existing business owners in Aberdeenshire since 2005 and a list of key local contacts can be found below.

Starting a business in In Aberdeenshire
Show me to businesses that offer
in Aberdeenshire

Download our Free Start your own business in Aberdeenshire guide

Start Your Own Business in 2021
Read more about what our Free local guide contains and how you can use it.
More Information

What do you get in the guide?

Packed with the information that you need to start or grow a business in Alton.

Checklist

Easy to follow step by step guide

Business set-up

Choosing the right structure

Getting online

Online marketing, social media

Local support

Where to find help and support

Premises

Work from home or premises?

Employing staff

How to find and recruit

Before you start

The reality of running a business

Finance & funding

Your funding options

Law & insurance

The key considerations

Business planning

Are you ready?

Accountancy & tax

Tax and VAT explained

Business directory

Useful contacts

Market research

Is there a gap in the market?

Business networking

Tips and local groups

Starting a business in In Aberdeenshire

Start-up Steps

We have created a collection of start-up steps articles to help anyone with whatever stage they are on with their business journey. Hundreds of thousands of people have gone before you and we can learn from what they got right and avoid the things that have been proved not to work so well.

You can see the full list of 'steps' at: Startup Steps

Would you like to have your business featured here?
Find out more information on our partner opportunities

Key Contacts in Aberdeenshire

The Long Partnership
The best time to talk to an accountant is when you first think about starting or buying your own business. The next best time is now. A little bit of time and money invested in timely advice could save you thousands of pounds and make the difference between success and failure, particularly if start-up funds are limited. We’d love to get to know you better & take some of the work off your plate. Call to book a FREE consultation or request a call back today!
(+)
The Long Partnership
Find Business Support in Scotland
We're here to help you find the business support you need. We have gathered together information and support for all company sizes and sectors across Scotland. What is FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot? This service was established to help Scottish businesses find the public sector support they need. Information is available for businesses of all sizes – from those thinking about starting a business to large, well established companies. This website is supported by an enquiries and referral service. You can contact us by submitting an enquiry or calling 0300 303 0660. Our lines are open from 8.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Landline calls cost up to 10 pence per minute, mobile costs can vary from 3 pence per minute to 40 pence per minute depending on your operating provider (source: Gov.uk). Why was this website created? This site intends to help Scottish businesses find the right information, advice and support at the right time. We will continue to add information and develop FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot and the referral service. We aim to provide all businesses with quick and easy access to all business support services provided by public sector organisations in Scotland. Who runs FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot? This is a partnership service. It started as a collaboration between Business Gateway, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland. We will eventually include all organisations who receive public funding in Scotland. We currently include services from the following partners.
(+)
Find Business Support in Scotland
Aberdeen Business Network (ABN)
Aberdeen Business Network (ABN) provides a unique and highly effective range of 6 offline business development solutions to North East businesses & organisations, as well as the free, online 7000+ member Community. Launched in 2008, Aberdeen Business Network (ABN) provides a unique and highly effective range of 6 offline business development solutions to North East businesses & organisations, as well as the free, online 7000+ member ABN Community. The ability to co-ordinate both online and offline networking gives our members a huge advantage in their business development activities. Options include networking events, one-on-one relationship-building, sales intel groups, networking training, premier memberships and advertising & event sponsorship opportunities.
(+)
Aberdeen Business Network (ABN)
The National Library of Scotland
The National Library of Scotland is one of a number of organisations that are here to help you with your business. We can: Guide you through the COBRA resource. COBRA stands for Complete Business Reference Advisor, and it is an excellent way to find out the basics about running a business. You can even use this resource at home if you register with us, which is free to do and just takes a few minutes Introduce you to our other business information resources and explain what each one can offer, from company data and market size, to market research and trends analysis Guide you towards a very large collection of books and articles all about running a business, marketing and management, and innovation and entrepreneurship. Get in touch by emailing enquiries@nls.uk to find out more.
(+)
The National Library of Scotland
Business Gateway Aberdeen City and Shire
Business Gateway Aberdeen City and Shire is your gateway to free expert local assistance and advice. There are many ways we can help you, even if starting up still seems a way off. Our website is a great place to begin: we offer a business plan guide to download when you’re ready, market reports as well as handy online guides and articles, video tutorials and podcasts. Take part in our webinars to hone your start-up skills – from how to handle the legal requirements to getting your market research right. Plus use our Planning to Start tool to guide you through the essential steps of starting up. It takes just 10 minutes to complete and then we can then use the details you give us to create your action plan, complete with links to relevant information and support. We’ll also recommend free webinars to help you hone your skills and may refer you to relevant support from our partners. A business adviser from your local office will also get in touch to see how else we can help at this stage and signpost you to a wide range of other support across Scotland. With our help, you could be in business sooner than you imagined. Enterprise Business Centre Broomiesburn Road Ellon AB41 9RD 01538 787393 Crichiebank Business Centre, Mill Road Port Elphinstone Inverurie AB51 5NQ 01224 968 789 Enterprise Business Centre South Harbour Road Fraserburgh AB43 9TN 01346 454712 Burnside Business Centre Burnside Road Peterhead AB42 3AW 01779 867 254
(+)
Business Gateway Aberdeen City and Shire
Invest Aberdeen
From start-ups, SMEs to major international corporations there are numerous local and national organisations that can offer business support. Both Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils provide a range of support and advice for local businesses from those starting out to social enterprises and successful international organisations. Find out more about available support:
(+)
Invest Aberdeen
Library Innovation Network Aberdeenshire (LINA)
Develop your business idea or boost your existing business with LINA online The Library Innovation Network Aberdeenshire (LINA), which has been developed in partnership between Live Life Aberdeenshire library service and RGU, is continuing to offer business toolkit workshops online. Prior to the Coronavirus restrictions, LINA’s co-working spaces and workshop programmes were held in the following libraries: Peterhead, Banff, Fraserburgh and Macduff. Additional programmes were due to be run from Turriff, Rosehearty, New Pitsligo, Strichen and Cairnbulg. All free learning programmes are now available online. LINA Online Business Toolkit Workshop For those interested in starting a business or scaling an existing business this online standalone workshop will help develop your entrepreneurial skills. The workshops will focus on the knowledge and mindset needed to accelerate your ideas, providing you with a toolkit of skills from marketing and viability to pricing and problem solving.
(+)
Library Innovation Network Aberdeenshire (LINA)
Bute Enterprise Finance Fund
Bute Enterprise Finance Fund is a charity funded company which provides loans to businesses and organisations in Bute, Argyll, South and North Ayrshire, Inverclyde and Renfrewshire. Finance £10k-£200k is available with flexible repayment terms up to 10yrs. Specific emphasis is placed on businesses that will assist economic regeneration or generate and sustain employment. We can also help borrowers access other types of finance such as government funded start up loans, advise on business plans and support the growth of your business.
(+)
Bute Enterprise Finance Fund
Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
Representing more than 1,100 organisations collectively employing 125,000+ people across all sectors, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce is the North-east’s leading business membership organisation and the largest Chamber in Scotland. An independent, privately funded organisation, we work locally, nationally and internationally to support businesses from sole traders to multinational corporations in a myriad of ways: From sourcing research and intelligence on our operating environment to providing unrivalled opportunities for networking, business development and best practice exchange. From equipping the region's workforce with the skills to succeed to issuing export documents for goods worth in excess of half a billion pounds every year. From talking up the area and celebrating business success to lobbying for necessary change. And much more. Being a member of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce can bring significant value to your business. Talk to us today to find out more. The Hub, Exploration Drive, Aberdeen Energy Park, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, AB23 8GX
(+)
Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
Startacus Aberdeen
Aberdeen based startups and entrepreneurs take note - here's the lowdown on key startup support and help available where you are... Away from established startup hubs like London, the support for setting up a startup in the UK isn’t always so clear. It’s not a lack of support, just a quieter ecosystem that takes a little more work to unearth. We want to help with this by highlighting what some cities, which might not spring immediately to mind at the mention of ‘startups’, have to offer. Remember when we said that we were touring the UK in no particular order? Well, we’re going back to Scotland today to have a look at startup support in Aberdeen!
(+)
Startacus Aberdeen
Starting a business in Aberdeen
Should you join over 10,000 businesses and start and grow your business in this up-and-coming Scottish city? Startups.co.uk, the UK’s leading independent, online resource for anyone starting and growing a business. Established in 2000, we are the UK’s largest, longest serving, and most comprehensive small business advice platform, covering everything you need to know to start, buy, run, or sell a business. You can read more about our track record on our Wikipedia page.
(+)
Starting a business in Aberdeen
Aberdeenshire Council
Economic Development within Aberdeenshire council exists to benefit business and communities and all those looking to find out about Aberdeenshire or relocating to the area.
(+)
Aberdeenshire Council
Starting a business: first steps
myscot.gov has a section dedicated to starting a business which talks you through the first steps, stage by stage.
(+)
Starting a business: first steps
Aberdeen Entrepreneurs
Aberdeen Entrepreneurs. The business networking group which offers a working environment for business individuals to come and meet new people, network, gain business opportunities and have an enjoyable evening with like-minded people. Each event runs with the same format; a guest speaker, question and answer session and plenty of networking opportunities. There is no membership for Aberdeen Entrepreneurs – as we know you are busy and are unable to attend every month, but our large pool of like-minded people ensures a good turnout.
(+)
Aberdeen Entrepreneurs
mygov.scot - Starting a Business
Information on business planning, registering a company and starting a new business. Setting up - Find information on setting up a business in Scotland. Tax and registering - Find information about registering your business with HM Revenue & Customs and Companies House. Marketing your business - Information on marketing and sales for your business. Intellectual property - Find out what intellectual property is and how to protect it in the UK and abroad. Further help to start a business - Information on organisations or services that can help you start a business or help your staff learn new skills.
(+)
mygov.scot - Starting a Business
Aberdeen Business News
SBNN Aberdeen publishes business news from Aberdeen City and Shire on a daily basis. We are part of the Scottish Business News Network, publishing more Scottish business news than anyone else via our national site, Scottish Business News, our geographically specific business news sites for Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness, and our sector specific sites for food & drink and technology. Send your press releases to editorial@sbnn.co.uk
(+)
Aberdeen Business News
Invest Aberdeen
Renowned as a Global Energy Hub, Aberdeen is a vibrant, entrepreneurial region in Scotland's North East, home to a unique mix of business opportunities and specialist skills across various sectors including energy, technology, life sciences and food & drink. More than 20% of Scotland’s top business are located in this region which is taking great strides to ensure that it continues to compete on a world stage; the Aberdeen City Region is in the midst of a transformational journey designed to drive an economic renaissance, bringing benefits to the region, Scotland and the UK overall now and for generations to come. More than £10 billion of public and private infrastructure investment is due to be delivered before 2030, marking an exciting time to be part of a genuine world-class business location. The Aberdeen City Region is primed for business and the Invest Aberdeen team is on hand to welcome you here.
(+)
Invest Aberdeen
Start Up Loans Scotland
Start Up Loans assign all applicants to one of our Delivery Partners and, where possible, match you with a Delivery Partner who operates in your local area. The link is to a page which lists their partners in Scotland. Please note, to ensure they can effectively support you, you will only be able to work with one Delivery Partner and you will not be able to change this once you have submitted your application.
(+)
Start Up Loans Scotland
Government-backed start up loans
Government-backed start up loans are available to help people who want to start or grow a business that is less than 24 months old. The UK Government has already helped over 3,700 companies in Scotland with start up loans. The UK Government has already helped businesses in Scotland with more than £30 million in start up loans. Start up loans are a great opportunity for individuals in need of a personal loan for business purposes to fund their new business. In addition to the loan you can also receive free business support and mentoring to help with starting and growing your business.
(+)
Government-backed start up loans
Aberdeen Young Professionals
Established in 2009, Aberdeen Young Professionals is a networking group aimed at young professionals who either work or are based in the Aberdeen area. Regular events allow members to network with like minded individuals and make new connections. AYP aim to help develop the next generation of industry leaders
(+)
Aberdeen Young Professionals
SJC+0 Accounts
I know by now most of you will be switching off and thinking nerd but listen what do you want from your accountant but someone who likes numbers – right?? And if you thought that was bad enough wait till I knock your socks off with the statement that I have a Maths degree – yep sure do. But please don’t let that put you off cause I also love getting to know people, so I’m a nosey mathematician turned accountant. Just the type of person you need on your team; someone who is ‘integral’ to your business. You may even enjoy talking numbers with me especially ones linked to how much will it cost to hire me? Don’t worry I’m worth every penny very reasonable and I’m ‘differential’, ’binominal’, ‘hyperbolic’ and modest too. If it helps we can arrange a monthly retainer fee so you can cover my costs over the year. I should probably mention, if modesty didn’t forbid, that I’m good at what I do. My clients seem to agree, and say nice things about me. So give me a call and if you’re lucky I may solve some of your problems – ouch!!
(+)
SJC+0 Accounts
Business Gateway
Starting a business - you may be planning to start a business or perhaps you’ve already begun. Find advice on the essentials, from writing a business plan to intellectual property on the Business Gateway website. It has a section dedicated to business start-up and this includes the opportunity to download your business plan template and guidance on: starting up a business, business support and advice, forming a company or business, intellectual property, naming a business, buying a business or franchise, Create business plan.
(+)
Business Gateway
Scottish Enterprise - Starting a Business?
Scottish Enterprise is Scotland's national economic development agency and a non-departmental public body of the Scottish Government. To deliver a significant, lasting effect on the Scottish economy, we work with partners in the public and private sectors to find and exploit the best opportunities. We support thousands of companies the length and breadth of Scotland, helping catalyse the changes in our economy that will have a long-term positive impact on Scotland's business competitiveness around the world. In doing so, we're creating significantly more, better jobs, helping people fulfil their potential. Starting a business? It can be both exhilarating and challenging getting your business off the ground. Having the confidence to take that next step is often all that’s needed. Access funding, a free business plan template, and guidance on legal requirements.
(+)
Scottish Enterprise - Starting a Business?
Help for Start-Ups - Business Gateway
If you run a start-up business as an entrepreneur, there is a variety of help for start-ups available, and there may be extra support you can access if you come under certain categories. Much of this help takes the form of mentoring and networking - but you should also be able to access targeted advice, support and even apply for loans and grants. This guide will help explain about the sources of funding that might be available to you and where to get help, advice and training.
(+)
Help for Start-Ups - Business Gateway
FW Accounting
Its not always totally obvious which route to take when you are starting up on your own. We support Contractors, Sole Traders and Limited Companies and will make sure you choose the option that is best for you. We look after you right through the process of starting a business so that you understand from the outset your responsibilities, the dates you need to submit tax returns, and everything else that is involved.
(+)
Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1877, AGCC is an accredited member of both the British Chambers of Commerce and Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the only truly independent UK business support organisation which has local representation, credibility in the eyes of government and the media, and is consulted at all levels by the Scottish Government and Westminster. Address: The Hub, Exploration Drive, Aberdeen Energy Park, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen, AB23 8GX
(+)

FREE Start-up Pack

This FREE start-up pack contains everything that you need to get you started.

Startup Pack

Start-up Guides

Our FREE downloadable guides are packed with the information that you need to start and grow a your business.

Startup Pack