SOSE helping to ‘galvanise’ south of Scotland – Daily Business

Scotland’s rookie enterprise agency has proved its value by generating investment and jobs and helping to give a voice to local communities, according to those who helped it through its early years.

An estimated 10,000 jobs have been created and safeguarded by South of Scotland Enterprise since it went live in April 2020, just after the pandemic struck.

The agency was established by the Scottish Government in recognition of the unique circumstances of the region.

During a visit to mark its fifth anniversary, First Minister John Swinney heard that during Covid-19 it distributed more than £26 million to 626 businesses, social enterprises and community groups with analysis showing almost 90% of them are still operating

Every £1 invested by SOSE results in £5 investment in the region, equating to around £250m over five years. Direct grant funding of £50m has been handed to 800 businesses, organisations and community groups. Inward investment enquiries have increased by over 400% from businesses looking to invest in the region.

Mr Swinney visited the Trimontium Museum which received £400,000 from SOSE towards its £1.4m refurbishment. He also spent time at Durty Brewing which SOSE helped get off the ground.

He said: “Since its inception, South of Scotland Enterprise has had a truly transformative impact on businesses and communities across Southern Scotland.

“It has helped galvanise the region, ensuring that Southern Scotland remains an attractive place to visit, to live and to work.”

SOSE chair Russel Griggs added: “When we launched in April 2020, we made a promise to the people of the South of Scotland that we would be bold, different, ambitious and would listen.

“We are proud of the support we have provided … and believe it highlights the importance of the South having its own dedicated enterprise agency.”

Chief executive Jane Morrison-Ross said: “The businesses and communities in our rural area of Scotland have shown a vision, ambition and determination.

“SOSE’s job in that time has centred on being the catalyst to spark progress – and collectively we have made a significant impact, highlighted by figures such as the 400% increase in inward investment enquiries.”