We aim to grow our economy by making Scotland one of the best places in the world to do business. This means supporting and listening to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and working to deliver the right support at the right time.
Actions
We are committed to working with public, private and third sector partners to:
- provide guidance and advice
- reduce the burden of business regulation
- promote innovation
- promote entrepreneurship
- maintain our existing Enterprise Areas to advance targeted industries
- provide digital support for businesses
- help social enterprises to achieve their aims
- encourage take-up of business rates relief
We are also:
- making it easier for businesses to get information and support through the find business support website
- increasing SME access to public contracts
- providing a skilled workforce
- supporting social enterprises
- trying to achieve inclusive growth
- promoting Regional Growth Deals
Background
The Businesses in Scotland 2025 statistics show that in March 2025 there were an estimated 384,280 private sector businesses operating in Scotland.
As at March 2025, there was an estimated 381,855 Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) operating in Scotland, providing an estimated 1.2 million jobs (56.2% of private sector employment).
We aim to ensure that Scotland’s business base continues to grow, while also becoming more innovative and further our aims for international trade and investment. We will do this by creating a supportive and competitive business environment.
You can read more about the number and types of businesses operating in Scotland in the Businesses in Scotland statistics.
Bills and legislation
The Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 was designed to improve the way regulation is developed and applied. It promotes regulatory consistency, and the protection of workers and the environment. It resulted in the creation of the Scottish Regulators' Strategic Code of Practice.
The Non-Domestic Rates (Enterprise Areas) (Scotland) Regulations 2016 were created to enable business rates discounts in 14 Enterprise Area sites.
Contact
Central Enquiry Unit
Email: ceu@gov.scot
Phone: 0300 244 4000
Post:
The Scottish Government
St Andrew's House
Regent Road
Edinburgh
EH1 3DG