EACH week the Evening Times throws the spotlight on one of the dozens of new businesses determined to succeed.

They are the future for Glasgow and the west of Scotland's economy and are working hard to succeed in the face of continuing economic hardship.

Many new businesses are struggling to take off because of the economic downturn, and our column offers advice for potential start-ups.

Each company answers the same questions about their business and their answers appear in the Evening Times each Wednesday.

This week we highlight Ameer Ali, of AA Tutoring.

who are you?

My name is Ameer Ali, 31, and I am a maths teacher.

I graduated in 2007 but unfortunately, that same year I was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis which has had an adverse affect on my health over the years and has now made it difficult for me to continue as a full-time teacher.

My condition has not in the least dampened my passion for teaching, or deterred me from aspiring to provide a service which allows young people to achieve their potential and I remain resilient to continue as a private maths tutor despite my declining condition.

What does your business do?

I recently launched a website (www.AATutor ing.com) for Higher Maths tuition where students can access quality Higher Maths notes containing step-by-step examples, practise maths questions as well as prelim and exam style questions, track their progress and seek additional support and advice in order to prepare them with the knowledge and confidence to pass their exams.

I also provide one-to-one tuition sessions where I incorporate the website as part of the session.

That way I can cater for the specific needs of the students.

When did you first think of your idea?

I was returning home after a tuition session in the East End of Glasgow when I was caught in a traffic jam.

I thought it would be great to give tuition from home and that's when I came up with the idea of a website where students could access my resources from anywhere.

Where are you based?

I am based at home in Glasgow which not only keeps my costs down but suits my physical condition.

How did you get started?

I immediately started writing the course notes and making up the questions on my PC at home.

At the same time, I was looking for a suitable web designer to build my website. I contacted Polr Ltd which designed the front end of the website and David Bennett, from Fuzzylime, who did all the programming and technical bits.

What is your background?

I have a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Glasgow University and went on to gain a postgraduate degree in secondary education from Strathclyde University.

I taught in Glasgow and Renfrewshire since then, teaching maths to S1 up to S6 pupils.

What is your top tip?

When it comes to business, focus on quality.

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

Karen Fotheringham, my Business Gateway adviser was extremely helpful in providing information on where I could receive additional support.

Useful contacts:

Business Gateway Glasgow www.bgateway.com / 0141 276 5333

Client Contact Details: Ameer@AATutoring.com

07588 704388