Run a business

If you happen to be a lawyer who loves birdwatching, a web developer who enjoys yachting, a chef who wants to take stunning coastal walks or an engineer who moonlights as a fiddle player, Shetland could be the place for you.

Shetland offers a unique environment to start or grow a business, combining strong infrastructure, a supportive business community and an exceptional quality of life.

The islands have a diverse and resilient economy, spanning sectors such as tourism, food and drink, aquaculture, energy, creative industries and digital services. This diversity, alongside continued investment and innovation, creates real opportunities for new and growing businesses.

Shetland has a strong and stable local economy, with around 1,650 businesses—95% of which are small enterprises. The area also has a business start-up rate above the Scottish average and one of the highest employment rates in Scotland.

Together, this creates a well-connected and supportive business community, where enterprises are used to working together and building for the long term.

If you’re starting or expanding a business, support is readily available.

Business Gateway Shetland provides free, expert advice at every stage – from developing an idea through to growth planning. This includes one-to-one support, help with business planning and marketing, and access to workshops, events and specialist advice.

Yes, a range of financial support is available locally and nationally. This includes grants to support start-ups with initial costs such as equipment, training and marketing, as well as funding for businesses looking to grow or invest. Local advisers can help identify suitable opportunities and guide you through the application process.

Shetland’s economy continues to evolve, with opportunities across a range of sectors. These include tourism and hospitality, food and drink, renewable energy, creative industries and digital services.

Many of these sectors build on Shetland’s natural strengths—its environment, culture and skills base, while also offering potential for innovation and high-value growth.

Shetland is well connected, with daily air services to mainland Scotland and a regular overnight ferry to Aberdeen. Freight services ensure the reliable movement of goods to and from the islands.

High-speed broadband is widely available, supporting remote working and enabling digital businesses to operate effectively from Shetland.

A range of commercial premises and flexible workspace options are available across Shetland, supporting businesses at different stages of development.

Local support organisations can help you identify suitable options based on your needs and location.

Shetland benefits from a skilled and adaptable workforce, supported by local training provision and a strong culture of enterprise. High employment levels and strong community networks contribute to a reliable and committed workforce, with many people experienced in working across multiple sectors.

The best place to begin is by speaking to a local adviser. Business Gateway offers practical, tailored advice on starting or growing a business in the islands. They provide access to a wide range of publicly funded support services, including guidance on planning, funding and development opportunities. With strong local knowledge, they can also highlight any specific assistance available, such as grants or loans, and help you take the first steps in getting your project off the ground.

You can also keep up to date with their latest events and opportunities online, or contact them directly at businessgateway@shetland.gov.uk to join their mailing list.

There are different routes into running a business in Shetland. As well as starting something new, you may be able to take on an existing business. Opportunities to acquire established businesses do arise and are typically advertised online in The Shetland Times and Shetland News. You can also promote your interest locally if you’re looking for a particular type of business.

If you’re searching for premises, a range of commercial properties is available. In Lerwick, Living Lerwick regularly advertises vacant retail units, while commercial property listings can also be found on platforms such as Rightmove.