An introduction to business strategy
2025-10-01 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-11-06 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-02 10:00 - 12:00 UTC
This webinar is practical, outcome driven, and designed to fit with the needs of small businesses in both B2C and B2B environments. It will help you develop a strategically led approach that can turbo charge business growth, identify the core growth strategy(ies) that are right for your business, and develop an action plan.
We will look at:

Your business today – identifying your strengths and areas for development
The key pillars of a business and why balancing all areas is essential for success
Personal and business ambitions and using these to guide strategy development
Ansoff’s Matrix as a tool for identifying core growth strategies
The core components of your business delivery
How to develop a methodical, strategic approach to developing your business for future success

After the webinar, you will understand:

How to undertake a balanced review of where your business is that helps identify areas for development
Ansoff’s Matrix and how to use it as a core strategic planning tool
How to create a strategic plan for growing your business

Lunch and Learn: Identifying ideal customers and validating potential demand
2025-10-03 13:00 - 13:30
In this session, business consultant Paul Cunningham will introduce you to actionable tools and frameworks you can use to identify your ideal customers and validate that there’s demand for what you’re selling.
Topics covered in this session:

How to model your ideal customer profile for accurate and cost-effective marketing
Validating potential demand to scale your efforts and investments to match
Simple tools and frameworks that accelerate and sustain your progress

Lunch and Learn: Building a loved local brand
2025-10-06 12:00 - 12:30
In this webinar, Teresa Ferreira, creative director and founder of Ferrgood Studio, shares some practical ways to cultivate a positive and beloved brand presence in your immediate local community.
Learn how to foster customer loyalty, increase footfall and drive sustainable growth.
Topics covered in this session:

How to identify the key elements that contribute to a “loved” local brand that stands out on the high street
A simple framework for connecting with customers through storytelling, visuals and tone of voice
Budget-friendly ways to enhance shopfronts and digital channels
Other resources and tools you can use to build your brand

How to scale your business on TikTok Shop
2025-10-07 10:00 - 11:00
The eCommerce marketplace has expanded from established platforms like Amazon to dynamic discovery commerce ecosystems like TikTok Shop, where content and commerce seamlessly merge.
While traditional marketplaces remain essential, TikTok Shop offers businesses a unique way to drive sales through features like shoppable videos, LIVE shopping, and partnerships with creators.
This free webinar, led by Nora Zukauskaite, Integrated Marketing Director at TikTok Shop UK & Europe, will show you how to harness the potential of TikTok shop.
It’s designed for small businesses that sell goods and products and will help you learn how to open a shop and grow revenue through shoppable content on TikTok Shop. It will particularly benefit your business if you sell products across FMCG, Home and Living, Electronics, or Beauty and Fashion.
During the session, you’ll learn:

Practical steps to set up your TikTok Shop and start selling quickly
How to create shoppable videos, LIVE shopping, and use the affiliate programme
Tips for optimising your TikTok Shop for maximum visibility, engagement and sales

Whether you’re new to TikTok Shop or looking to scale your existing presence, this session will give you the insights and tools to succeed.

Lunch and Learn: Building a food business with creativity and confidence
2025-10-09 12:00 - 12:30
Join us for an inspiring session in which Dee Omole, CEO of Dee’s Basement, explores why your story is just as powerful as your product.
Discover how to keep your creative spark alive while navigating the demands of running a business, and learn how to recognise and grow opportunities that truly let your brand shine.
Whether you’re building your brand or looking to refresh your vision, this webinar offers practical insights to fuel both passion and purpose.
Topics covered in this session:

Why your story matters as much as your product
How to keep your creativity alive while running a business
How to spot and nurture opportunities that help your brand shine

Lunch and Learn: Why changing the high-street narrative is vital for success
2025-10-10 12:00 - 12:30
In this webinar, Laura Harris from HighStreetPositives will explore why changing the narrative about our high streets is vital for business success, investment and local engagement.
Using survey insights and real-life examples, she’ll show you how to build pride in your place, share local good news, collaborate with fellow enterprises and highlight the high street as a community hub – all to strengthen both your business and your town.
Topics covered in this session:

Why narrative matters – understand how perceptions influence local engagement and your business, with insights from HSP surveys
Building pride in place – practical steps for small businesses to foster community spirit and collaborate with other local enterprises
Making high streets experiential, convenient and community-focused – actionable ways to attract and retain customers while contributing to a vibrant, valued local high street

Lunch and Learn: Leaning into adversities to make your brand stronger
2025-10-14 12:00 - 12:30
Many businesses don’t survive “shock events” (global pandemics, heavy flooding, recessions and so on). So what helps those that do survive them to keep going?
In this Lunch and Learn, Adrian Ashton will share insight into how he’s managed to keep his business afloat in the face of ongoing crises that would’ve forced most other businesses to wind up. And he’ll explain how to apply these lessons to any enterprise.
Topics covered in this session:

How not to lose clients when dealing with challenges
How to approach recreating your business model
How you can use crises to help strengthen your brand

A step-by-step guide to building your business plan
2025-10-29 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-11-19 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-03 10:00 - 12:00
New and established businesses will require a business plan for getting a loan, grant or just to consider the direction they wish to go in. This webinar will teach you what you need to include and how. We will walk you through what should be included within a business plan, how a business plan is used to improve your prospects for a loan or a grant, and how you can develop a business plan to meet your needs.
We will:

Provide a structure for a business plan
Review each section of what should be included within the business plan
Explain when and how to use a business plan
Explore the connections (and importance) between the words and the numbers
Look at how to identify and manage cashflow within the business planning process

How to go global without the headaches
2025-10-29 12:00 - 12:30
Thinking about international expansion, or just curious about what it takes?
We know this can often feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This session, led by our expert speaker Mike Wilson, is designed to help founders and small business owners explore new markets with confidence and without the stress and complexity that often comes with it.
From testing demand to managing cross-border payments and logistics, Mike will break down the practical steps to understand what’s involved in expanding internationally and how to do it efficiently.
You’ll also learn how Airwallex helps SMEs expand faster by simplifying cross-border payments, helping you set up quickly in new markets and offering better FX rates through multi-currency accounts and local payouts – all in one platform.
Topics covered in this session:

How to explore new markets with minimal upfront investment
Managing multiple currencies and payments seamlessly
Ket logistics, compliance, and partner considerations
How Airwallex simplifies global operations for SMEs

Navigating the 2025 festive season: Strategies for small businesses
2025-10-30 14:00 - 14:30
The festive season is a crucial time for small businesses. In this session, Constant Contact’s Dave Charest will share some of the latest trends, challenges and actionable strategies from his organisation’s most recent survey, The Small Business Holiday Outlook 2025.
You’ll hear more about the festive season being a make-or-break time for small businesses in that it generates a substantial portion of their yearly revenue.
Whether you’re hands-on with your marketing or just trying to keep up, this session is designed to give you the most valuable insights and practical tips to help your business thrive through the busy season.
Topics covered in this session:

Why the festive season is absolutely vital
How social media and discounts drive sales
The economic challenges and consumer behaviour that affects business and shopping habits

Lunch and Learn: How to franchise your business
2025-10-31 12:00 - 12:30
Franchising is one of the fastest ways to scale in the UK–- but only if your business is ready.
In this webinar, business growth consultant Julie Clabby will tell you how to turn your successful business into a franchise model that works.
Topics covered in this session:

What franchising really is and how it works
Why you need a proven pilot business, not just an idea
How to make sure your numbers stack up for both you and your franchisees
Why documenting your systems is crucial to success
How to map territories so every franchisee makes the most of their potential

Lunch and Learn: How to save cash and carbon
2025-11-03 12:00 - 12:30
Join us for a practical session with small business energy expert Jon Perks on how to save your business cash and carbon from the outset.
The energy market today is fast-moving and finding the right tariff isn’t just about cutting costs – it’s about gaining a real competitive advantage.
In this Lunch and Learn, Jon will explain how to choose the most suitable energy tariff for your small business.
You’ll learn how to interpret your energy consumption (with the help of your smart meter) to make small, simple changes that add up to big savings on both cash and carbon.
You’ll leave with actionable tips on saving time, reducing your bills and shrinking your carbon footprint – all while keeping your business ahead of the curve through the power of data.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn how smarter energy choices can help your business save cash and carbon, and grow.
Topics covered in this session:

How to pick the right tariff for your business: Why having the right tariff and shifting consumption can save the earth – in more ways than one
Your energy insights: How to use data from your smart meter to quickly identify where you can cut costs and reduce your carbon footprint, without taking up valuable time
Actionable tips to save cash and carbon: Walk away with practical, easy-to-implement tips that will help your business save money and time, and stay competitive in today’s market

Expanding Your Market: Progressing from Direct Sales into Retail or Wholesale
2025-11-06 11:00 - 12:30
GrowBiz Enterprise Facilitator Daniel Muir will guide you through the key steps, considerations, and benefits of expanding your sales channels. Daniel has a background in supply chain management and understands the challenges small businesses face when trying to scale. He’ll share practical insights to help you figure out the best way to grow—whether that’s expanding into wholesale, retail, or both.
During the session we’ll explore together:

Retail opportunities – how to position your product for retailers, what motivates them, and how to handle margin expectations while maintaining profitable growth.

Wholesale strategies – how working with wholesalers can increase your reach, reduce logistics challenges, and simplify operations, and what you need to have in place to work with wholesalers.

Practical considerations – from packaging, barcoding, and pallets to stock management and production capacity.

By the end, you’ll see how scaling through retail or wholesale can help you expand beyond your local geography, save time and delivery costs, and drive higher volumes, sales, and revenues.
Finally, we hope you’ll walk away with the clarity and the confidence to take your next step.

What is cyber resilience and why is it important? | Lunch and Learn
2025-11-06 12:00 - 12:30
In an era of constant disruption, cyber threats and regulatory pressure, resilience is no longer optional – it’s critical.
In this webinar, Jack Marley will introduce topics such as cyber security and its relationship to resilience, and how businesses can proactively manage risk, ensure continuity and build trust.
Topics covered in this session:

Understand resilience, why it’s important and how it differs from security
Real-world examples of how organisations are using planning, automation and expertise to go from a reactive to proactive cyber posture
How to get started quickly with a scalable, cost-effective resilience framework tailored to your business

Pricing strategies to unlock six-figure growth | Lunch and Learn
2025-11-07 12:00 - 12:30
Join author and entrepreneur Vic Taylor for this practical, no-fluff session on how to price your services and products with confidence.
She’ll explore 15 different pricing strategies you can apply in your own business – whether you’re refining an existing offer or bringing something new to market.
Topics covered in this session:

15 pricing strategies you can test in your small business
How to set prices that reflect the true value of your work
How to present your offers confidently and without second-guessing yourself

Future proofing your business
2025-11-11 10:00 - 11:00
A combination of game-changing trends are driving transformative change in Scotland and the rest of the world. Geopolitical tensions, emerging technologies and a global skills squeeze, for example, mean that today’s world is often uncertain and volatile.
This first in a series of free webinars, hosted by Scottish Enterprise, will explore the background and research behind these megatrends and how you can build your business resilience considering them.
Speakers:

Ewan Mearns Team Leader Strategy and Performance Scottish Enterprise
Simone Boeklaar Head of Horizon Scanning Innovate UK

Simone Boeklaar will discuss:

What is futures thinking?
How futures thinking can help businesses identify new innovation opportunities and to develop strategies for to prepare for disruptors.
Why should businesses care about futures thinking?

As Scotland’s national economic development agency, Scottish Enterprise tracks the trends that are likely to shape Scotland’s economic future.
Ewan Mearns will discuss:

An introduction to the four megatrends identified by Scottish Enterprise that are shaping Scotland’s future economy
An overview of the practical ways businesses can respond to future external trends and how Scottish Enterprise can help

How to start prioritising what matters | Lunch and Learn
2025-11-11 12:00 - 12:30
Time is a precious commodity for small businesses, yet it’s often overlooked or mismanaged.
With a unique blend of advocacy and research expertise, Tammy Whalen Blake, founder of the Yellow Mastermind, brings a fresh perspective to time management. This webinar will be informative and inspire actionable change.
Topics covered in this session:

The multi-role dilemma and its impact on businesses
How to prioritise tasks effectively and focus on high-impact activities that drive growth and profitability.
Proven strategies for balancing a number of responsibilities and being as productive as possible

Legal essentials for small business owners | Lunch and Learn
2025-11-17 12:00 - 12:30
Running a business comes with countless responsibilities, and legal compliance is one of the most important.
In this session, Patricia Wing (CEO of SuLe) breaks down the legal essentials every business owner needs to know.
From contracts and intellectual property to employment and data protection, this webinar will help founders and business owners gain clarity and confidence in managing their company’s legal foundations – all without the legal jargon.
Topics covered in this session:

How to understand your legal obligations: The fundamental legal requirements that apply to businesses of all sizes, from company formation to day-to-day operations.
How to protect your business assets: Safeguard your contracts, intellectual property and brand to prevent costly legal disputes.
How to stay compliant and confident: Practical, actionable insights to keep your business compliant with current laws and best practices, saving time, money and stress.

Business For Good
2025-11-20 10:00 - 11:30
This 90-minute interactive online session is your chance to explore how Inclusive Democratic Business Models are shaping the future of the Scottish economy — and how you can be part of it.
This session will be led by GrowBiz Enterprise Facilitator Jenny Lyall who heads up the Social Enterprise Network in Kinross. Jenny will also be joined by other GrowBiz team members across the country who all have a passion for this type of business model. Do please come along and meet the team where you will be made most welcome.
During the our time together you’ll:

Learn from experts about practical ways to put people and planet at the heart of your business.
Hear inspiring stories from Scottish social entrepreneurs who are already making it work.
Join the conversation in small facilitated breakout rooms — connect with peers, share experiences, and spark new ideas.
Discover opportunities to grow your rural business with purpose and resilience.

You’ll leave with fresh inspiration, actionable insights, and new connections that can help you build or grow a business that truly matters — to you, your community, and Scotland’s future.
Reserve your place now and be part of shaping a more purposeful business landscape in Scotland.

Selling Your Business Masterclass
2025-11-20 10:00 - 12:00
Have you considered a succession plan for your business? Have you considered selling your business to an employee ownership trust? It’s never too early to start thinking about your options.
Employee ownership is fast becoming the preferred exit route for business owners. Attend this free online workshop to learn how employee ownership offers a tax efficient exit route that protects your company’s legacy while ensuring you get a competitive price for the business.
Aimed at business owners considering an exit from their company, this free online session will give you the opportunity to hear from resilience management firm Inverroy Crisis Management and construction and fit-out company Pacific Building. They’ll talk about the factors they considered in choosing employee ownership and how things have worked out.
Louise Fisher from Baxendale EO will talk through all your ownership succession options before focussing on employee ownership and how to ensure the employee buyout is a smooth process.

When to hire your first operations leader | Lunch and Learn
2025-11-21 12:00 - 12:30
As a founder, you’re used to doing it all – finance, people, compliance, customer success and more.
But at some point, juggling every function yourself stops your business from growing. That’s when it’s time to bring in your first operations hire.
But should that be an operations manager, head of operations, chief of staff or chief operating officer (COO)? And how do you decide what’s right for your stage?
In this Lunch and Learn, Aušrinė Keršanskaitė, co-founder of Operations Nation, will walk you through how to spot the signs that you’re ready, what different operations roles look like and how to make sure your first hire is set up to succeed.
Topics covered in this session:

Knowing when you’re ready: Clear signs that the founder “do-it-all” model is slowing you down
Picking the right role: How to decide between an operations manager, head of operations, chief of staff or COO depending on your business’s needs
Setting yourself up for success: The onboarding, scope and expectations that make the difference between a hire that thrives and one that struggles

How to grow your small business at a faster pace | Lunch and Learn
2025-11-25 12:00 - 12:30
Want to grow your business but not sure where to start?
Join growth expert Anna Hutton-North for a practical session that will help you spot what’s holding your business back – and build a clear, achievable plan to move it forward.
Learn how high-performing teams win more work, create momentum and turn strategy into results.
Topics covered in this session:

Growth roadmaps: How to create plans you can deliver on.
Pit stop or stagnation: Ways to analyse your team’s ability to deliver growth
Supercharging growth: How to create momentum that will take your business forward.

Investment-ready: How to build a business investor's trust
2025-11-25 13:00 - 14:00
Join Adam Kudryl and Mark Freer as they share practical guidance on creating a business that earns investors’ trust and attracts buyers.
Combining their 45 years of experience in legal and investment, they’ll cover the business and legal fundamentals: strong governance, clear ownership, shareholder protections and an exit-ready mindset.
You’ll learn:

What being truly “investor-ready” means
How to boost buyer and investor confidence
The core qualities investors seek
How to prepare your business for investment and exit
Common red flags and how to steer clear
An investors view on what builds (or erodes) confidence

Reignite your passion for the high street
2025-11-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Arbroath Courthouse, 88-92 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1HL
Be inspired by retail expert Kimberley Guthrie, as she shares powerful insights on how to rebuild footfall, make the most of the festive season, and spark collaborations that can transform your local high street into a must-visit shopping destination.
If you’re looking to boost sales, attract new customers, or simply reignite your passion for retail after a challenging period, this session is packed with fresh ideas to help you thrive.
Come along and let’s celebrate the power of local business and get ready to make this festive season your most successful yet!

Scaling with the right mindset
2025-12-03 12:00 - 12:30
Scale like a champion. Learn from Booking.com’s former chief financial officer how to build winning routines, think strategically and future-proof your growing business.
In the final webinar of our Finance Beyond Borders series, we sit down with Olivier Bisserier, former CFO of Booking.com, to explore what it takes to scale a business at Olympic speed – without burning out or losing sight of the bigger picture.
Olivier helped Booking.com expand into more than 20 countries each year. His lessons are essential for founders and finance leaders alike, especially those building their finance stack from day one.
In this webinar, he’ll talk about scaling a business at speed, how we’re looking at work-life balance wrong and why modern CFOs must be tech-savvy and think like Olympians.
Topics covered in this session:

The CFO mindset for founders: How to think like a strategic finance leader – even before you hire one
The Olympic athlete approach: Why discipline, focus and routines are key to scaling sustainably
Scenario planning: How to anticipate future challenges and build resilience into your operations
Tech-savvy leadership: Why understanding emerging technologies is crucial for growth
Global expansion tips: How to strip out friction and scale internationally with the right payments infrastructure

How to scale revenue without the guesswork | Lunch and Learn
2025-12-08 12:00 - 12:30
Learn how to move beyond inconsistent revenue and scale with clarity and confidence.
In this session, Marinda Malan explains how to set a focused growth mission, prioritise the strategies that drive results and build a simple, repeatable system to execute effectively every week.
Walk away with a clear roadmap to align your team, cut through the noise and create sustainable commercial momentum.
Topics covered in this session:

How to set a clear commercial mission that drives growth
How to cut through the noise and prioritise what works
How to build a simple, repeatable system you can execute with confidence
