Stirling voted best city in Scotland for starting up a business

Stirling is the best place in Scotland for starting a new business, according to a recent study. Start-up specialist Quality Formations carried out the survey, studying 69 cities in the UK. Stirling came eighth, with Manchester, London and Birmingham not far behind.

For the research, the survey looked at eight criteria, including broadband service and quality of life. Derby also scored high on the survey, followed by Belfast and Stoke.

Clear affirmation

Council leader, Johanna Boyd, commented on the results, stating that it was a “clear affirmation” of the business-friendly culture in Stirling and that it is “brilliant news for the city.” She added that it was confirmation that the city was the place to be to launch a business.

“We are already known for our heritage, landscape, skilled workforce, excellent transport links, and enviable lifestyle. And we now have the plans in place to build on this and advance opportunities for growth and development for the benefit of all our people,” she said.

Digital district

Recently, plans to spend £200m on developing the city were announced, which will include a new “digital district” that will provide facilities for small and medium-sized businesses. The council stated that there are hopes that the plans will boost the local economy and create over 1,500 jobs in the city.

Ross Tuffee, one of the city’s local entrepreneurs, said that the talented graduates and post-graduates in the city influenced his decision to start his own business there.

“We needed a location that met some important criteria including easy access to a supply of great business and technical talent,” he said.