Self-employment in ScotlandThe first port of call for graduates in Scotland with a business idea, whether it’s already developed or still just a concept, is the Small Business Gateway. Run by Scottish Enterprise, the Gateway provides a single access point to information and advice for anyone thinking about starting up in business. The Gateway’s business information service provides potential business people with advice on supplier information, building markets, funding sources, access to company reports, credit checks, market research and business training. Depending on the requirement, it can also provide information on exporting, human resources, tenders and the legalities of business ownership. The biggest hurdle graduates and young people in general have to overcome is a lack of funding. Lenders are often unwilling to take a chance with young entrepreneurs who are unlikely to have business experience or security for a loan. This is where the Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust can help. The Trust aims to provide the basic financial and professional support to help people up to 25 get started in business; the age limit is extended to 30 for people with a disability and for residents of the Highlands and Islands. The Trust can help get ideas thoroughly tested and, most importantly, can offer up to £5,000 at low interest rates, without security. The average award to a young person applying for a loan averages around £3,600, a substantial boost to getting any enterprise off the ground. There is also the possibility of a grant of up to £1,000. For graduates from a technical background who have a business idea worth developing, a postgraduate qualification in entrepreneurship may help. The University of Strathclyde offers an MSc and PGDip in Technology Entrepreneurship, aimed at individuals who wish to research the possibility of setting up their own technology-based business. Further information Business Gateway 0845 609 6611 The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust 0141 248 4999 | 
