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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. 

Small business support

When you start your own business, you'll face tough challenges and decisions. We share some for the key sources of free and paid-for advice.

Resource topics

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The cost of living crisis is making life tough for the UK’s small firms. Our guide highlights the many ways you can get help if your business is struggling.
A guide to government grants for UK businesses and business rates reliefs including the retail discount as part of COVID support measures.
Networking can help you to share knowledge, forge alliances and access the skills and experience of others. Read our guide to collaborating.
Setting up a business can be challenging and you're unlikely to have all the skills and knowledge you need. Our guide to finding advice and support.
Using a professional adviser can save you time and prevent you making costly mistakes. Our guide to finding and getting the best from advisers.
When ill health left Fay Miladowska out of work, The Prince's Trust enabled the young designer to launch her highly successful greetings card business.
Running your own small business can be lonely and it can be difficult to know what to do when faced with new challenges unless you have a mentor.
The right mentor could be a valuable asset for your enterprise - a source of expertise, experience and support, and, above all, a fresh perspective.