Advertiser: Business incubation scheme rolls out in Mayfield

With youth unemployment at record levels and firms of all shapes and sizes finding life tough, an exciting ‘incubation’ project is being launched in Mayfield to give people the support and knowledge needed to start their own business.

Led by Midlothian North MSP Colin Beattie (SNP), a team of local companies and organisations have come together to offer complete business support for a year to around 20 entrepreneurs, also providing free use of facilities at McSence Business Park.

Known as the Business Launch Pad, they are looking for self-motivated and enthusiastic people who have a clear idea of the type of business they want to run but need help making this a reality.

Those offering their help and expertise are: Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce; McSence; Morisons LLP; Tax Assist; Basically Tool Hire; and A4e – a company employed by the UK government to help the long-term unemployed back into work.

Together they will help people create a business plan and offer a range of services including mentoring, financial advice and computer equipment to get their business ideas off the ground.

Colin Beattie told the Advertiser he is keen to give people a start in business, particularly school leavers.

He said: “All these kids are looking for jobs that don’t exist, so let’s encourage them to start their own business.

“We are going to offer these youngsters a year’s free accommodation, all the advice and expertise they need and hopefully they can then work away on their own after that.”