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Thinking about starting a business? Have an idea to explore – or ready to launch? The MEC Resource Centre is here to support you

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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.

A social enterprise is a business that trades to tackle social problems, improve communities, people’s life chances, or the environment.  A social enterprise is a business, not a charity, that makes money and profit. 

News

September 2021

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The latest government figures show that there was a 71% increase in the number of company insolvencies in August compared to the same month last year.

The government has announced that Making Tax Digital for Income Tax will now be introduced in April 2024 - a year after it was originally scheduled to start.

Accountants are warning that a "perfect storm" is brewing for UK small businesses as COVID support schemes come to an end and other pressures build including rising energy prices, supply chain issues and a looming National Insurance hike.

A new report has warned that increasing numbers of unhappy workers are considering leaving their jobs as working from home takes its toll due to the pandemic.

The government scheme enabling small businesses to recoup statutory sick pay costs due to coronavirus will end at the end of September, and any outstanding claims must be made by 31 December 2021.

A new survey of small businesses in the UK has found that the majority of business owners affected by late payment are suffering stress, anxiety or depression because they are so worried about cashflow.

The International Franchise Show returns to the ExCel London.

Lending to entrepreneurs and small businesses outside London through the government-backed Start Up Loans scheme has passed the £600 million mark.

Almost 80 new businesses were created every hour across the UK in the first half of 2021, according to a new study.

Job vacancies have hit an all-time high but the Federation of Small Businesses has warned that rising employment costs are preventing small firms from hiring.

Prime minister Boris Johnson has unveiled plans to increase National Insurance contributions in order to fund health and social care - but business groups say it could derail the UK's recovery from COVID.

Small Business Saturday has chosen 100 inspirational small businesses to mark the countdown to this year's campaign.