Start up business ideas

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.

Set up a business

Female business owner registering a new business

article

How to register a business

How to register your business with Companies House, how to register as a sole trader and how to register your business name as a trade mark.

Business planning

Person in the water holding onto a orange lifebuoy ring

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10 steps to… Business survival

Statistics show business failures are on the increase. Make sure your business isn't next. We share 10 steps to helping ensure your businesses survival.

Financing a business

person on desk, with laptop and writing on notepad

Article

Getting a grant - checklist

Your business might be entitled to claim a grant. Here's how to identify a scheme and apply for grant funding.

Tax and National Insurance

Business law

Sales and marketing

Business premises

Employees

A closed blue ring binder filled with job descriptions

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Job description template

A job description will help you write your job advert, provides pointers when interviewing and makes it clear to candidates what you are looking for.

Grow your business