Welcome to the online resource for starting and running a business in the UK.
It contains essential information, support and services for you and your business – whether you work for a large organisation or are on your way to starting up.
Simple to use, up to date and practical, we hope this is the first place to go to find guidance. We also have a number of useful online tools, calculators, and best practice case studies.
Starting Up
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Starting a business: the basics
If you are considering starting up a new business, you need to consider a number of factors to ensure the best chance of success. As well as your product or service, you will need to…
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Set up and register a partnership
This guide looks at the requirements that ordinary partnerships have to meet. A partnership is a relatively simple and flexible way for two or more people to own and run a profit-making business together. Social…
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Family-run businesses
A family-run business is typically one in which more than half the shares are controlled by members of the same family, or one that has been passed between generations. Starting, leading and working in a…
Finance & Grants
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Shares and shareholders
Selling shares in your company is one way of raising long-term finance for your business. This is also known as equity finance. The advantage of equity finance is that you don’t always have to repay…
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Understanding European banking services
If you are a business based in the UK aiming to set up a business elsewhere in Europe, you need to know how commercial banks operate in Europe. You also need to know how business…
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Foreign currency and exchange risks
If your business exports or imports goods or services, you need to consider how you will protect yourself against changes in the exchange rate. Even a tiny variation in the rate could cost your business thousands of…
Employment & Skills
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Know your legal obligations on pensions
It is sensible for everybody to make sure that they have some sort of pension provision. As an employer, you need to understand your legal obligations in this area. You should consider your own retirement…
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Trade union membership rights
A trade union is an organisation of workers that seeks to protect and advance the interests of its members by negotiating with employers on pay and conditions of work. Unions may also provide legal advice,…
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Work effectively with trade unions
Deciding how you wish to structure relations with your workers can help your business. If you recognise a trade union, it will benefit your business if you enjoy a good working relationship with its representatives. You may also benefit…
Sales & Marketing
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PR: the basics
PR – or public relations – means getting people to talk and think about your business in a positive way. It can be a vital weapon in your business’ armoury. It’s a way to get good…
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Accepting online payments
For many small businesses, accepting payments online offers major benefits. Customers increasingly expect this facility and it can improve your cashflow significantly. It’s easy to accept cheques or invoices for your online sales and to…
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Manage the risks of exporting
Exporting can be a great opportunity to develop new customers and increase profits. However, trading internationally presents extra risks and challenges. You can’t eliminate these risks altogether, but you can manage and minimise them. This…
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