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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.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

Companies House users to switch to new service

9 November 2023

Following a Companies House announcement, users of Companies House Direct (CHD) and WebCHeck services are switching to the new 'Find and Update' service

Limited companies, LLPs and their advisers are moving to the Companies House 'Find and Update' service ahead of the closure of Companies House Direct (CHD) and WebCHeck services on 30 November 2023.

Both Companies House services are being replaced by the free 'Find and update' service. The new service offers:

  • Advanced company searches
  • Dissolved companies searches
  • Company snapshot reports
  • An alphabetical name search
  • An ordering facility for certificates of incorporation and change of name, certified documents and missing images

Written by the Donut news team.

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