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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

April 2023

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A new report on the digital economy has found that UK firms' online sales doubled between 2014 and 2021, with individual website sales eclipsing sales via online marketplaces such as Amazon.
A programme aimed at UK small businesses promises to improve their chances of winning government contracts by helping them work with bigger suppliers.
More than six in ten small business owners say they expect their business to grow this year but cost cutting is still hampering business recovery.
Almost half of the UK's self-employed workers are over the age of 50. But is self-employment a choice or is age discrimination forcing many older people to work for themselves?
Small businesses are bracing themselves for even tougher times ahead as they face an 85% drop in the energy support package as well as rising tax and wages in April.
A new competition is offering UK start-ups and small businesses the chance to trade on London's busiest shopping street.