Starting a Business

Starting and running a successful business can be one of the most rewarding things you can do in life. It can also be one of the most daunting. This page outlines the main areas of help available to people starting a business including a series of workshops covering key topics and a free mentoring service to ensure you get the best start.

If you have a business idea and are not sure where to start, then get in touch with the Council's Economic Development Team or call 01993 861485. We are here to help.

No nonsense guide to starting a business

An excellent No Nonsense Guide to Starting a Business is available to download. Hard copies are available from Business Link by ringing 0845 600 9 006.

Workshops

Business Link is the Government's main business support initiative. Business Link run regular free workshops covering the main aspects of starting and running a business. The series includes an introductory "Is it right for you?" workshop followed by 3 themed workshops. Interested people can attend all or any of the sessions.

Workshop 1 - Is it right for you?
This is aimed at those who want to explore the pros and cons of running a business before deciding to take the plunge. This 3 hour workshop will help you:

Decide if going into business is the right thing for you to do
Understand what is involved in starting and running a business
Know how to access the support that is available Gain support/ideas and contacts from fellow participants
Complete your own action plan detailing any further investigation required before making your final decision.

Workshop 2 - Planning for success: business planning and legal aspects
In this workshop you will be able to understand what a business plan is, why it is needed, what it contains and even begin to create your own. Different types of business structures will be explained and what to consider when choosing the right name for your business. Understanding areas of the law which affect businesses will be dealt with including Health and Safety and Employment Law.

Workshop 3 - How to win and keep your customers: sales and marketing
For anyone who needs guidance in successful marketing and sales techniques. By the end of the session you will be able to prepare an effective marketing plan and know how to make a sale.

Workshop 4 - Managing money: finance and accounts
All participants will look at the costs of starting up in business, plus the ongoing costs, understand the financial requirements of running a business and know how to record the various financial transactions including tax, national insurance and VAT. Raising money is also a component of this module.

Workshop 5 - Running a Social Enterprise
A Social Enterprise usually starts up to meet a social need not being met through other means. This three hour course will help those who want to explore the possibilities or who need guidance on research, planning and development.

It is recommended that you attend the other 3 key start-up workshops prior to this one on Planning for Success; Managing Money and How to win and keep Customers.