Business Gateway Aberdeen City & Shire has launched the Digital Support for Business Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen the digital capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.
Building upon the success of the national Digital Boost programme which has supported businesses for over seven years, this programme aims to equip local businesses with the digital skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
As part of Scotland’s broader digital strategy, the Digital Support for Business Programme is aligned with the objectives set out in the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET).
This initiative will provide targeted support to help SMEs increase their digital capabilities, enabling them to enter new markets, trade internationally, and improve overall business efficiency.
"The pandemic and cost of doing business has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies among businesses at an unprecedented rate," said Jamie Hutcheon, Business Gateway manager at Aberdeenshire Council.
"With 73% of businesses reporting that the pandemic has encouraged them to adopt new technology, our programme will ensure that SMEs in Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City can continue to innovate, grow, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace."
The Digital Support for Business Programme offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of SMEs. These services include:
- One-to-One Support: Businesses can access two days of personalised support, focused on specific areas such as website support, data analytics, software customisation, social media development, mobile technologies, cloud computing, digital strategy, and cyber resilience.
- Surgeries: Shorter, targeted interventions of 1-2 hours, providing one-to-one consultations that address specific business challenges.
- Digital support workshops: Group coaching workshops designed to empower multiple businesses simultaneously, sharing knowledge and best practices in a collaborative environment.
These services are designed to empower businesses with the knowledge and skills they need to independently implement and optimise digital technologies, rather than relying on external execution. The goal is to build long-term digital resilience and competitiveness within the North-east’s business community.
Businesses interested in accessing support through the Digital Support for Business Programme can apply by completing an application form, indicating the type of support and the specific areas they wish to focus on. Applications for support will be reviewed by Business Gateway.
For more information on the Digital Support for Business Programme and to apply for both Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City businesses, please visit https://www.aberdeenshire.gov....