SOSE, Business Gateway & Pathways: How Their Support Helped Shimena Thrive
Let me get real with you for a wee minute...
I’m feeling genuinely grateful today - and it’s all thanks to SOSE, Business Gateway, and Pathways. Their guidance and backing have been such a massive support as I’ve been getting Shimena up and running here in the UK.
I’ve actually had this business since 2017 back in South Africa, but running a business there and running one here are totally different admin-wise. I really wanted to make sure I was ticking every single box from the start, and honestly… their courses on all things business have been an absolute gift. Clear, helpful, and packed with things you don’t even realise you need to know.
When we first moved back home to Scotland, the plan was to start Shimena here straight away, I brought a whole bunch of stock with me and everything - but life happens. We needed my income to help get a mortgage and get on the property ladder, and I knew it would take time before Shimena could bring in what we needed. So I got a full-time job… and before I knew it, I thought maybe Shimena just wasn’t going to happen for me over here.
The imposter syndrome hit hard.
New person in town.
No one knows me or likes my business idea.
I don't know the ins and outs of having a business here.
Why would anyone even buy from me?
All those thoughts I’m sure so many business owners know far too well.
But this year something shifted. I found Business Gateway and their courses reminded me of everything I already do know - and taught me the things I didn’t. And then, this past week, SOSE granted me funding to help with all the behind-the-scenes bits that cost money before money starts coming in (takes money to make money and all that). Things I would’ve eventually managed once cashflow allowed, but thanks to Pathways I can hopefully get there a lot faster.
How Each Organisation Helped
Business Gateway
Provided strategic planning support and connected me with essential resources.
Their one-to-one mentoring sessions helped me navigate legal requirements and develop robust business ideas and a plan that actually works.
SOSE Support
Offered invaluable in person and online workshops (which helped when trying to fit it in around full time work and 3 kids).
Their entrepreneurship programme gave me the confidence and practical skills needed to pitch my business effectively and secure funding.
Pathways Backing
Helped me to think about the small bits and pieces that are needed to start up a business, and allowed me the funding to get these, to get me on my feet.
Their networking events opened doors I didn't even know existed, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Steps Along the Journey
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Initial Contact: Connected with Business Gateway and joined their start-up programme
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Skills Development: Completed amazing SOSE & Business Gateway workshops on finance, business, AI and marketing fundamentals
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Network Building: Engaged with Pathways networking events and mentorship schemes
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Grant Success: Secured funding to propel Shimena forward in the UK market
"Starting a business is never a solo journey. The support, wisdom, and encouragement I've received, not just from my husband and family but from an entire business community have been absolutely transformative. To Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways (and my hubby of course) - thank you for believing in Shimena and for turning my entrepreneurial dreams into reality. This grant is just the beginning, and I couldn't be more grateful to have you all in my corner."
Looking Ahead
Here’s to the incredible organisations that support entrepreneurs, the mentors who share their wisdom generously, and the exciting journey ahead for Shimena.
So here’s what I’m saying…
If you’ve got a business idea in your heart, imposter syndrome is real, and you will absolutely fight with your own brain sometimes - but with these three amazing agencies backing you, supporting you, and cheering you on, you genuinely can give it your best shot.
You can do it. We can do it.
And I’m rooting for every single one of us. 💛
From Startup Dreams to Reality: How Business Gateway, SOSE and Pathways Transformed My Shimena Journey
Starting a business in a new country can feel overwhelming, but I've been incredibly fortunate to have three extraordinary organisations by my side. Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways haven't just offered guidance—they've become my compass through the complex landscape of UK entrepreneurship. Their expertise has transformed my vision for Shimena from an ambitious dream into a tangible, thriving reality that's taking shape before my eyes.
Celebrating This Week's Grant Win and the Incredible Support Network That Made It Possible
Business Gateway
Provided strategic planning support and connected me with essential resources. Their one-to-one mentoring sessions helped me navigate legal requirements and develop a robust business plan that actually works.
SOSE Support
Offered invaluable workshops on financial management and marketing strategies. Their entrepreneurship programme gave me the confidence and practical skills needed to pitch my business effectively and secure funding.
Pathways Guidance
Helped me understand the UK business ecosystem and connected me with fellow entrepreneurs. Their networking events opened doors I didn't even know existed, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
This Week's Milestone
I'm absolutely thrilled to announce that Shimena has been awarded a grant this week! This financial boost isn't just about the money—it's validation that my vision resonates and confirmation that we're on the right path.
None of this would have been possible without the patient guidance, expert advice, and unwavering encouragement from Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways. They believed in Shimena when it was just an idea.
Initial Contact
Connected with Business Gateway and joined their startup programme
Skills Development
Completed SOSE & Business Gateway workshops on finance, business and marketing fundamentals
Network Building
Engaged with Pathways networking events and mentorship schemes
Grant Success
Secured funding to propel Shimena forward in the UK market
"Starting a business is never a solo journey. The support, wisdom, and encouragement I've received have been absolutely transformative. To Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways—thank you for believing in Shimena and for turning my entrepreneurial dreams into reality. This grant is just the beginning, and I couldn't be more grateful to have you all in my corner."
Here's to the incredible organisations that support entrepreneurs, the mentors who share their wisdom generously, and the exciting journey ahead for Shimena. If you're considering starting a business in the UK, I cannot recommend these organisations highly enough. They don't just offer advice—they walk alongside you every step of the way, celebrating your wins and helping you navigate the challenges. The future is bright, and I'm so grateful to be building it with such amazing support!
From Startup Dreams to Reality: How Business Gateway, SOSE and Pathways Transformed My Shimena Journey
Starting a business in a new country can feel overwhelming, but I've been incredibly fortunate to have three extraordinary organisations by my side. Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways haven't just offered guidance—they've become my compass through the complex landscape of UK entrepreneurship. Their expertise has transformed my vision for Shimena from an ambitious dream into a tangible, thriving reality that's taking shape before my eyes.
Celebrating This Week's Grant Win and the Incredible Support Network That Made It Possible
Business Gateway
Provided strategic planning support and connected me with essential resources. Their one-to-one mentoring sessions helped me navigate legal requirements and develop a robust business plan that actually works.
SOSE Support
Offered invaluable workshops on financial management and marketing strategies. Their entrepreneurship programme gave me the confidence and practical skills needed to pitch my business effectively and secure funding.
Pathways Guidance
Helped me understand the UK business ecosystem and connected me with fellow entrepreneurs. Their networking events opened doors I didn't even know existed, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
This Week's Milestone
I'm absolutely thrilled to announce that Shimena has been awarded a grant this week! This financial boost isn't just about the money—it's validation that my vision resonates and confirmation that we're on the right path.
None of this would have been possible without the patient guidance, expert advice, and unwavering encouragement from Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways. They believed in Shimena when it was just an idea.
Initial Contact
Connected with Business Gateway and joined their startup programme
Skills Development
Completed SOSE & Business Gateway workshops on finance, business and marketing fundamentals
Network Building
Engaged with Pathways networking events and mentorship schemes
Grant Success
Secured funding to propel Shimena forward in the UK market
"Starting a business is never a solo journey. The support, wisdom, and encouragement I've received have been absolutely transformative. To Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways—thank you for believing in Shimena and for turning my entrepreneurial dreams into reality. This grant is just the beginning, and I couldn't be more grateful to have you all in my corner."
Here's to the incredible organisations that support entrepreneurs, the mentors who share their wisdom generously, and the exciting journey ahead for Shimena. If you're considering starting a business in the UK, I cannot recommend these organisations highly enough. They don't just offer advice—they walk alongside you every step of the way, celebrating your wins and helping you navigate the challenges. The future is bright, and I'm so grateful to be building it with such amazing support!
From Startup Dreams to Reality: How Business Gateway, SOSE and Pathways Transformed My Shimena Journey
Starting a business in a new country can feel overwhelming, but I've been incredibly fortunate to have three extraordinary organisations by my side. Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways haven't just offered guidance—they've become my compass through the complex landscape of UK entrepreneurship. Their expertise has transformed my vision for Shimena from an ambitious dream into a tangible, thriving reality that's taking shape before my eyes.
Celebrating This Week's Grant Win and the Incredible Support Network That Made It Possible
Business Gateway
Provided strategic planning support and connected me with essential resources. Their one-to-one mentoring sessions helped me navigate legal requirements and develop a robust business plan that actually works.
SOSE Support
Offered invaluable workshops on financial management and marketing strategies. Their entrepreneurship programme gave me the confidence and practical skills needed to pitch my business effectively and secure funding.
Pathways Guidance
Helped me understand the UK business ecosystem and connected me with fellow entrepreneurs. Their networking events opened doors I didn't even know existed, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
This Week's Milestone
I'm absolutely thrilled to announce that Shimena has been awarded a grant this week! This financial boost isn't just about the money—it's validation that my vision resonates and confirmation that we're on the right path.
None of this would have been possible without the patient guidance, expert advice, and unwavering encouragement from Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways. They believed in Shimena when it was just an idea.
Initial Contact
Connected with Business Gateway and joined their startup programme
Skills Development
Completed SOSE & Business Gateway workshops on finance, business and marketing fundamentals
Network Building
Engaged with Pathways networking events and mentorship schemes
Grant Success
Secured funding to propel Shimena forward in the UK market
"Starting a business is never a solo journey. The support, wisdom, and encouragement I've received have been absolutely transformative. To Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways—thank you for believing in Shimena and for turning my entrepreneurial dreams into reality. This grant is just the beginning, and I couldn't be more grateful to have you all in my corner."
Here's to the incredible organisations that support entrepreneurs, the mentors who share their wisdom generously, and the exciting journey ahead for Shimena. If you're considering starting a business in the UK, I cannot recommend these organisations highly enough. They don't just offer advice—they walk alongside you every step of the way, celebrating your wins and helping you navigate the challenges. The future is bright, and I'm so grateful to be building it with such amazing support!
From Startup Dreams to Reality: How Business Gateway, SOSE and Pathways Transformed My Shimena Journey
Starting a business in a new country can feel overwhelming, but I've been incredibly fortunate to have three extraordinary organisations by my side. Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways haven't just offered guidance—they've become my compass through the complex landscape of UK entrepreneurship. Their expertise has transformed my vision for Shimena from an ambitious dream into a tangible, thriving reality that's taking shape before my eyes.
Celebrating This Week's Grant Win and the Incredible Support Network That Made It Possible
Business Gateway
Provided strategic planning support and connected me with essential resources. Their one-to-one mentoring sessions helped me navigate legal requirements and develop a robust business plan that actually works.
SOSE Support
Offered invaluable workshops on financial management and marketing strategies. Their entrepreneurship programme gave me the confidence and practical skills needed to pitch my business effectively and secure funding.
Pathways Guidance
Helped me understand the UK business ecosystem and connected me with fellow entrepreneurs. Their networking events opened doors I didn't even know existed, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
This Week's Milestone
I'm absolutely thrilled to announce that Shimena has been awarded a grant this week! This financial boost isn't just about the money—it's validation that my vision resonates and confirmation that we're on the right path.
None of this would have been possible without the patient guidance, expert advice, and unwavering encouragement from Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways. They believed in Shimena when it was just an idea.
Initial Contact
Connected with Business Gateway and joined their startup programme
Skills Development
Completed SOSE & Business Gateway workshops on finance, business and marketing fundamentals
Network Building
Engaged with Pathways networking events and mentorship schemes
Grant Success
Secured funding to propel Shimena forward in the UK market
"Starting a business is never a solo journey. The support, wisdom, and encouragement I've received have been absolutely transformative. To Business Gateway, SOSE, and Pathways—thank you for believing in Shimena and for turning my entrepreneurial dreams into reality. This grant is just the beginning, and I couldn't be more grateful to have you all in my corner."
Here's to the incredible organisations that support entrepreneurs, the mentors who share their wisdom generously, and the exciting journey ahead for Shimena. If you're considering starting a business in the UK, I cannot recommend these organisations highly enough. They don't just offer advice—they walk alongside you every step of the way, celebrating your wins and helping you navigate the challenges. The future is bright, and I'm so grateful to be building it with such amazing support!
