Enterprise is dealt with on a regional basis and there are strategies for each of the four home nations, and within England for the English regions.
Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform:
The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform is the government department with lead responsibility for business and looking after the interests of employees. It is also responsible for policy on consumers.
Local Enterprise Agencies:
Local Enterprise Agencies are not-for-profit companies that assist new and growing businesses by providing a range of services. They deliver business support services under contract to a wide range of public and private sector bodies including Local Authorities, Business Links, The Learning and Skills Council and Regional Development Agencies. They also work directly with business customers.
The National Federation of Enterprise Agencies:
This is the membership body for Local Enterprise Agencies and other similar organisations in England. It is made up of a network of independent, not-for-profit local agencies. The National Federation of Enterprise Agencies aims to influence government, the EU and other key decision makers in the development of effective strategies for assisting small businesses to sustain themselves and prosper.
It operates:
Enterprise Networks:
The Scottish Government works with the Enterprise Networks in Scotland to deliver strategies aimed at creating long-term sustainable economic growth. The key economic development agencies in Scotland are Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The document ‘A Smart Successful Scotland’ outlines the strategy of the Enterprise Networks.
At a local level, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise operate through a network of Local Enterprise Companies. There are 12 in the Scottish Enterprise area and 10 in the Highlands and Islands Enterprise area.
Enterprise Trusts:
Enterprise Trusts were established in the early 1980s. At the time, the Scottish economy was undergoing significant changes due to the decline of traditional industries such as coal mining, steel, shipbuilding and heavy engineering. The trusts were set up locally to support the regeneration of communities by focusing on small businesses.
Business Enterprise Scotland:
Business Enterprise Scotland is the lead body and national association for Scotland’s Enterprise Trusts. It provides leadership and represents the interests of the trusts. It also promotes quality standards, the sharing of best practice and networking and staff development.
Business Gateway:
This site offers practical help, advice and support for new and growing businesses in Scotland.
Flexible Support for Business:
Flexible Support for Business is an information service for both established and new companies.
Invest Northern Ireland:
Invest Northern Ireland is part of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment. It provides services, programmes, support and advice to the business community.
| 
