Start up business ideas

For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Start up business ideas - overview

For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Product development - overview

Our guide to product development, including customer research, market positioning, the product life cycle and how to keep your product range fresh.

Types of business - overview

There are more than 5.6 million business in the UK. Find how to guides for more than 180 different types of business if you are thinking of joining the small business ranks.

Testing business ideas - overview

To avoid starting a new business that's doomed to fail, you must test your business idea rigorously. Discover how to test your business ideas.

Start up stories - overview

Founders are interesting people with a story to tell. Here they share their tips for success and help you avoid the mistakes that they made.

How to start your own business
Article

How to start your own business - free guide

Although it takes hard work, starting and running your own business can be hugely satisfying. Our free start-up guide gives you the lowdown on all the key issues to think about when starting a business.

Sarah Giblin, founder of RiutBags
Article

Q&A: Can I start my own business?

Wondering if you can start a business? Sarah Giblin, founder of RiutBags, answers common start up questions from would-be entrepreneurs.

Matt Horan
Article

How clubbing inspired my business idea

Matt Horan of Rollasole got the idea for his roll-up pumps for clubbers after a night out. Since his 'Eureka!' moment he's taken his business online.

Piece of paper with 'Franchise' written in red ink with a list written underneath
Article

Essential guide to buying a franchise

Franchising allows you to set up a business following a proven formula - although you'll be subject to restrictions. Our guide to franchising.

A man completes the contract to buy a business
Article

Q&A: Buying a business

Buying a business can be less risky than starting one. If the business has customers, then it has income. But it will need upfront investment.

Man working behind a computer
Article

Start-up story: Bubble Jobs

Adam Butwilowski spotted a gap in the market for a website for web, ecommerce and social media jobs. So how did he turn his idea into a business?

A social enterprise works with young people
Article

Q&A: Social enterprises

Unlike even the most ethical of other start-ups, social enterprises have environmental or social values at the very core of everything they do.