One Business Network

There are a vast array of Government bodies wanting to help you set up in business.  Below we have listed some that we found really useful, but they all come with a health warning - beware of taking advice from people who have never run their own business.  They may offer some useful hints and tips, but we would always recommend learning from people who walked the path before you.  

As an example of this, let me tell you a little story... when we first started our marketing company in 2004 we attended a free business start-up course which had a grant attached.  On the first day, we were told that we didn't need a company name and that we could trade off our own name, as none of us would be doing any business outside our home town.  I have to say, that was an ambitious start to a four day course!

Unfortunately,  this attitude plagues the business advice sector and gives people an excuse to dampen your ambitions.  I'm pleased to say things are improving and there are many very good business advisers, who have a huge amount of experience - just ask a few questions, so you know how much weight to place on the advice you're given.

Never one to miss an opportunity, it was that piece of advice that led to the creation of the ONE Business Network.  All our contributors are experienced business owners - successful and unsuccessful.  What we share is only our opinion, but at least we've been there, done it and got the T-shirt.

Remember... Free Advice is Worth Exactly What You Pay For It

Useful Contacts:

www.Businesslink.org

We would recommend you start with Business Link.  Their website is very easy to use and contains lots of helpful tips, as well as a checklist of things you need to do when you set your business up.  If they still offer the 'No Nonsense Guide, or it's equivalent, get hold of a copy.

www.hmrc.gov.uk

If, like us, tax and VAT pertifies you and you think the tax inspectors are just there to send you to jail (that would be directly to jail, without passing go and without collecting your £200,) then please let us put your mind at rest.  We received some fantastic help from the Inland Revenue and their training courses are well worth attending.  Contact your local office and meet your local advisers - they can help you fill in your tax returns and often tell you about things you can claim, that you didn't know about.  They're also surprisingly normal.

Even if you have an accountant, we would suggest gaining a really good understanding of VAT and tax regimes, as it will serve you well in the future.  You can't rely on your advisers to know everything - you need to do your homework too, so you can ask the right questions.

Local Enterprise Agencies

Your local enterprise agency is always worth contacting.  They will know of any business support, advice and grant funding that may be available in your area.  They can also be a good signpost to local suppliers and business networks that will help you get started.

Our advice is always speak to as many people as you can.  Collect all the advice and then make your own judgements - your gut instinct is often right.  Then go to work. 

"Take the first step in faith - you don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step"

Dr Martin Luther King Jr.