Who can help you set up your own business?
If you're planning to set up your own business, why not access all the fabulous help and support that's out there? There are some great web sites around which mean you can start developing and writing your business plans while you're still in your current job. And don't forget, too, the face to face contact with people.
By – DeskDemon.com
Banks
Most banks and building societies have staff who are dedicated to helping you start up your own business. They will often appear at networking events to talk about their products and services. Don't feel you need to stick to your own bank where you have your personal bank account. Think about what you're looking for in a bank or building society. Do you want direct line access to your business adviser, for example?
Business Link
Visit Introduction to Business Link for more information. Get information on starting up your own business, with lots of useful practical advice. It's always very helpful to talk through plans with someone who is totally impartial. These contain a huge amount of business information and advice, with helpful, practical and easily read articles on areas such as:
- Starting a business, e.g. buying a franchise, getting grants, writing a business plan or forming a business
- Growing and managing a business
- Selling or exiting a business
Visit www.businesslink.gov.uk to find your local Link.
Federation of Small Businesses
Keep in touch with the issues which concern you and your business at www.fsb.org.uk/
Small Business Service
The Small Business Service web site is at www.sbs.gov.uk and it focuses on taking forward the government's plan for small businesses. The service does research into and produces statistics on small businesses; they make interesting reading.
British Franchise Association
If you're thinking of buying a franchise (essentially a tried and tested business), this site is for you! There are a whole host of franchises to suit many budgets and interests, including recruitment and training, personal services and IT. www.british-franchise.org has details on news, events, seminars, what a franchise is, how to choose a franchise, where to find a franchise and more.
Health and Safety Executive
This site has info on a wide range of business, health and safety issues. Find out more at www.hse.gov.uk.
Inland Revenue
Generating enquiries regarding tax matters, PAYE, registering as self-employed and benefits.
Visit www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk.
Want to set up as a Virtual Assistant?
Then visit www.iava.org.uk for lots of helpful tips and information. This is the web site for the International Association of Virtual Assistants and is a must if you're considering setting up as a VA! There's details on what a VA is, who needs a VA, and help in finding a VA. Why not visit the site and get an idea of what it's all about?
