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

Search

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

October 2021

Displaying 1 - 12 of 12
12 results shown

The Autumn Budget 2021 was chock-full of spending pledges and support for businesses but business groups have questioned whether the measures go far enough for the UK's six million small firms.

A rise in the Living Wage, an end to the public sector wage freeze, more money for health, education, transport and housing - the Treasury has been releasing details of the chancellor's spending plans ahead of Wednesday's Budget.

New research by IPSE has found that changes to IR35 tax rules have had a devastating effect on UK contractors, prompting many of them to leave self-employment altogether.

This year's Small Business Saturday roadshow will visit 20 UK towns and cities to offer online and in-person support to local entrepreneurs.

More than one in ten UK workers are thinking about retraining in a trade as demand for plumbers, electricians, joiners and builders soars.

After a significant bounce-back in the spring, small business growth forecasts are still looking good and the number of small firms that fear they might not survive has hit its lowest level for two years.

A new study has found that less than one in three small business owners experiencing poor mental health have sought professional help.

A new poll of UK workers has found that start-ups are increasingly offering workplace benefits to help recruit and retain employees.

HMRC is reminding taxpayers to check that they have the correct information in order to complete their next tax return - including any payments from COVID-19 support schemes.

New research has found that two in five small business owners are concerned that their employees may move on to new jobs now that the furlough scheme has ended.

The latest survey by the Institute of Directors reveals that SME confidence plummeted in September and the Federation of Small Businesses has warned that small firms may be facing an "autumn storm".

New research has highlighted the plight of freelance workers that did not qualify for government support during the pandemic.