Partner support opportunities

VisitScotland

VisitScotland is the national tourism organisation for Scotland, supporting responsible and sustainable growth of the tourism and events sector so that the whole country benefits.

Whether a businesses is new and requiring advice on where to start, or more established and looking for growth opportunities, we offer a range of advice and information on how to grow and improve your business, as well as delivering marketing and networking opportunities.

Additionally, our market research, visitor trends and sector reports, provide industry insights that help businesses understand customer behaviour, adapt to changing demands, and identify opportunities for growth. 

Support from VisitScotland helps businesses to stay competitive, attract visitors, improve customer experiences, and adapt to industry trends. 

Find out more about VisitScotland and what we can offer. 

EventScotland

Events are recognised as an important driver of the visitor economy and as such VisitScotland’s EventScotland team specifically focusses on engagement and support for the events sector.

EventScotland offers a range of tailored advice and guidance on accessing funding, partnerships and marketing your event all  of which are underpinned by Scotland the Perfect Stage 2024-2035, Scotland’s National Events Strategy.

Find out more about the support available from event partners, including EventScotland.

Scottish Tourism Alliance  

The Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) is the main representative body for Scottish tourism and hospitality and its largest member organisation.

With a mission to shape a vibrant tourism industry for Scotland’s visitors and people, the STA works closely with industry partners to align with Scotland’s tourism strategy, ensuring sustainable growth, business resilience, and enhanced visitor experiences.

Membership is open to businesses, trade associations, and other organisations that are interested in tourism. Becoming a member offers the opportunity to have your voice represented at the highest level. You also gain access to a range of insights, networking opportunities and other services to support your business.

Find out more about the work of the Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) and the benefits of becoming a member. 

UKHospitality  

Representing the hospitality sector across the UK, membership of UKHospitality spans a wide range of operators, suppliers and affiliates of hospitality, including bars, restaurants, hotels, and visitor attractions.

In Scotland they represent over 150 members, operating approximately 8,000 venues across the country, providing strategic support, regulatory advice, and lobbying services to influence public policy in favour of the hospitality sector.

In addition, they offer extensive resources aimed at enhancing business operations, improving customer service, and boosting employee engagement. They address workforce challenges, promote hospitality as a career, and guide businesses on compliance. 

Find out more about the work of UKHospitality and what they can offer your business. 

Scottish Chambers of Commerce 

Made up from the membership of a network of 30 local Chambers of Commerce organisations operating throughout the country, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce champions businesses, places, and global trade, and provides a voice to business communities.

As well as ensuring the priorities of businesses are heard by decision makers, the media and Government, Chambers of Commerce support and connect businesses, share best practice, create new opportunities and provide practical support tailored to your local area. 

Find out more about how the Scottish Chambers of Commerce can help to grow and expand your business and find your local Chamber of Commerce. 

Enterprise agencies

Scottish Enterprise 

Scottish Enterprise (SE) is Scotland’s national economic development agency. They support new, early stage and established businesses across a wide range of sectors who wish to expand their business by taking advantage of new market opportunities. 

SE focuses on activities that assist businesses to secure investment, grow and scale, and become internationally competitive. They can help across a range of areas with advice on development, innovation, transition to net zero, fair work practices and much more.

Learn more about what opportunities Scottish Enterprise can offer you. 

Highlands and Islands Enterprise

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) work alongside local businesses, communities, and social enterprises of all sizes to make the region a leader in sustainable economic growth and development.

Covering a region from Shetland to Argyll, and the Outer Hebrides to Moray, HIE actively works to foster growth in communities of all sizes, supporting regional development through tailored programmes and initiatives. 

Your business can benefit from expert advice, insights and support on a range of topics, including innovation, funding opportunities and grants, net zero, fair work practices, events, property access and management, and much more.

Current available support includes:

• Digital Tourism Support Programme – see if you’re eligible and apply for three days of free, personalised one-to-one digital advice from industry experts.
• Gaelic support - explore Gaelic integration and strengthen your brand authenticity through Gaelic language and heritage. Apply for one of the 10 places before 26 May 2025.
• Food and drink – increase productivity and reduce carbon emissions.
• Research and development – develop new products, services and processes.

Discover more about what Highlands and Islands Enterprise can do for you. 

South of Scotland Enterprise

South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) are the economic and community development agency for the South of Scotland. Their role is to support local business and community enterprises throughout Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders.

SOSE can provide expert advice tailored to your business on training, networking opportunities and a range of funding schemes, including grants and loans. Whether you’re looking to start up your own business within the region or finding new ways to adapt your product and services, they can help make a difference. 

Find out more about South of Scotland Enterprise and the opportunities they can offer. 

Business Gateway 

Business Gateway Scotland provides free business support to anyone in Scotland. They have advisers based in offices across Scotland that can provide support to you at a local level. 

Whether you are starting out or looking to grow an existing business, Business Gateway is a great way to access one-to-one business advice, online resources, webinars, and events. 

Find out more about Business Gateway and find your local Business Gateway office. 

Skills Development Scotland

Skills Development Scotland (SDS) is the national skills body supporting the people and businesses of Scotland to develop and apply their skills.

SDS offers tailored apprenticeships and training programs in industries like hospitality and tourism. Their strategic skills planning helps businesses align their training with the necessary skills and knowledge.

By collaborating with SDS, business owners can enhance their efficiency, increase employee retention, and drive sustainable growth through a skilled and motivated staff.  

Find out more about Skills Development Scotland and see the hospitality and tourism programs and qualifications available. 

VisitBritain

VisitBritain offer comprehensive support for the UK tourism sector, working to promote Britain globally. They provide resources for businesses looking to attract international visitors and engage effectively with the travel trade. Their services include market insights, digital marketing tools, and extensive training on accessibility and sustainability in tourism. 

Find out more from VisitBritain. 

Scottish Tourist Guides Association

The Scottish Tourist Guides Association (STGA) is the only professional membership body for fully trained, accredited guides within Scotland with endorsement from VisitScotland and VisitBritain.

STGA is responsible for training, accrediting, and supporting professional tourist guides in Scotland. They ensure that guides meet high standards of knowledge and professionalism so that visitors receive accurate and engaging information, contributing to the overall quality of the tourism experience in Scotland.

They also help coordinate the provision of guiding services in various languages, enhancing Scotland's appeal to international tourists. 

Find out more from the Scottish Tourist Guides Association. 

Destination management organisations (DMOs) are regional or local organisations comprising of tourism stakeholders. They look to represent their specific destination and promote it to tourists.

Scotland has many DMOs throughout the country covering urban, rural and island destinations. These can be focused on a very specific location or a wider region.

Businesses can benefit from DMO membership through the marketing and promotion opportunities they provide. They may also offer the chance to take part in training and networking events which are a great way to make connections and work collaboratively with other businesses in your area.

DMOs will often work closely with their local council. If you are unsure about which DMOs are operating in your area, then your local council should be able to advise you.