Monthly Newsletter
Invest in West Lothian - March Newsletter
Welcome to the March edition of the Invest in West Lothian newsletter! In our newsletter, we will be sharing the latest news stories, funding opportunities, and events for businesses in West Lothian.
Here at Invest in West Lothian, we are committed to helping businesses in West Lothian grow by providing confidential and impartial advice, highlighting funding opportunities, and sharing helpful resources. We can help new and established businesses that are currently based in West Lothian, or are looking to relocate to the area. You can learn more about the support we offer by visiting www.investinwestlothian.com .
Celebrating Good News Stories in West Lothian
Livingston Designer Outlet Further Strengthen its F&B Category this Spring
Livingston Designer Outlet is welcoming some exciting new retailers to the shopping centre, strengthening its already impressive food & beverage offering.
Contemporary Indian street food restaurant Tikka Nation opened recently within the food court. Then in the Spring, YouTube group the Sidemen will be bringing their popular chain restaurant Sides to the shopping centre. Local delicatessen and tasting bar, Hamilton & Brown, will also be opening in the Spring time.
The new openings underline the shopping centre’s strategic transition from a traditional retail environment to a destination spanning retail, dining and leisure.
You can read the full story here.
Funding for Businesses in West Lothian
The Invest in West Lothian team have extensive experience of preparing funding packages for local businesses of all sizes. Each month, we will highlight a new funding opportunity that is currently available to eligible businesses in the area.
Trade Development Grant
Exhibiting at trade shows is a great way to raise the profile of your business and introduce your products and services to a wider audience. However, exhibitions can be expensive.
With our exciting Trade Development Grant, eligible West Lothian businesses can receive funding of up to 50% of eligible costs (up to a maximum of £2,000 and a minimum of £250) to help them attend exhibitions.
Eligible costs include:
- Renting, setting up and running an exhibition space
- Stand and electricity cost
- Marketing costs, including the production of banners, brochures and other promotional materials
- Accommodation and air/rail travel costs
Please note that any projects funded must be completed by the 31st of March 2026.
To learn more about the Trade Development Grant, please click here.
Upcoming Events
We are delighted to be hosting the following free events in March:
Digital Marketing Strategy: Setting Objectives, Goals & KPIs Coaching Sessions
These online coaching sessions will help you understand how to set meaningful objectives, measurable goals, and realistic KPIs that align with your wider business ambitions. You’ll learn how to plan campaigns strategically, evaluate success effectively, and ensure every marketing effort delivers value. Th sessions are taking place from 2:00pm – 3:00pm on Wednesday, the 11th of March, and Wednesday, the 18th of March (you only have to attend one session).
1:1 Procurement Surgery Sessions
We are offering eligible West Lothian businesses the opportunity to book a free, 1:1 virtual surgery session with a procurement expert from Intend Business Development Ltd. These sessions have been created to help West Lothian business owners improve their understanding of the procurement process and improve their success rate with tender bids. Sessions last 1-hour and flexible appointments are available.
To learn more and book your free space at any of our events, please click here.
If you have any questions about any of the topics covered, please email invest@westlothian.gov.uk .
We hope you have a fantastic month!