Small & medium business

Thinking...

Essential information before you start your business

  •  Is starting a business right for you?

    Setting up a business can be a great experience – but are you really the kind of person who can be their own boss?

  •  How do I know if I have a good idea?

    Lots of people make a sucess of being their own boss — find about the characteristics you need to suceeed.

  •  What skills will I need?

    Working for yourself means juggling a lot of different roles, from finance bookkeeping through to managing the marketing. Find out the skills you need to start up on your own.

  •  Should I quit the day job?

    In some cases, setting up your own business doesn’t mean you have to quit your current job. Find out if juggling regular work and a business on the side is the right approach for you.

  •  Getting advice

    There’s plenty of great business advice out there – but knowing where to go can be tricky. Here’s our pick of the best places to find great guidance.

Our top tips

  1. Do something you love - it makes the tough times easier

  2. Don't do it alone - get help and advice from lots of people

  3. Work out your market - who will you be selling to?

  4. Work out the income you need - and make sure your business can support this

More...

  • How to impress the bank manager

    What does a bank manager really look for when you go to them for help?

  • Tips on getting a business grant

    We look at the kinds of grants that are available, and what you need to do to maximise your chances of getting them.

  • How to be an Internet pioneer

    How one company has used the internet to control costs, keep in touch with customers, and work more flexibly.

Video - 'The Start Up Story' - watch Richard Moross of MOO Print.  Watch now

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