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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.

News

January 2025

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Small businesses have a positive effect on local communities, according to the findings of a new study.
The Start Up Idea of the Year competition will give three budding entrepreneurs the chance to win grants of up to £10,000.
Storm Eowyn looks set to cause disruption for UK SMEs this week, with strong and dangerous high winds as the Met Office issues a rare red warning.
Research shows that many Brits are planning to start a side hustle in 2025; a new study has investigated which side gigs are most lucrative for those looking to earn some extra money.
With the self-assessment deadline looming for the 5.4 million Brits who are yet to file their tax return, over 640,000 are set to file late according to the latest data published by FreeAgent.
The rising cost of running a business is the biggest worry for UK small firms - and many are questioning the government's support for SMEs, according to a new survey.
The Start Up Donut will be helping one small business owner to launch their business in 2025 with a Start-up Support Package worth over £3,000.
With less than a month to go, the countdown is on for 5.4 million customers who still need to complete and pay their Self Assessment and avoid penalties, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) warns.
A new survey suggests that the UK could be on the brink of a self-employment boom as one in two UK adults say they have plans to start a business.
Online platforms, including eBay, AirBnB and Amazon, will start sharing information about sellers and their earnings with HMRC from the end of January 2025, although the UK tax body has made clear that the online selling tax rules have not changed.