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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.

Start up business ideas

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.

Resource topics

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Although the toy market is very competitive there's still room for well-run independents offering great service.
To run a tack shop ideally you'll be knowledgeable about equestrian matters and located in an area with lots of horses and riders.
Most surf shops are located in coastal areas and are often run by people with a keen interest in surfing.
Sports goods retailing is very competitive and independent outlets need to make sure they have something special to offer customers - like a repair or hire service.
Ever wondered how to start your own shoe shop? Follow this guide on how to start up your own shoe shop business up and running.
Scrap metal prices can go up and down quickly so you'll need to take this into account if you're setting up as a scrap metal dealer.
There are lots of things to consider if you're planning on running a shop.
There's no doubt that streaming services and online stores have thrown up many challenges for record shops, but a well-run business can still succeed.
The number of Post Offices has fallen in recent years. The Post Office has also been in the spotlight thanks to the Horizon scandal. That said, they are still a popular lifestyle.
Photographic equipment shops sell and hire equipment to casual photographers, serious hobbyists and professionals.
If you're an animal lover running a pet shop might be an option for you.
The night-time economy has been hit hard by the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis. However, people still want to go out at night. Discover what you need to consider if you’re considering opening a night club.
Read our in-depth practical guide to starting up and running your own day nursery.
Check out our practical guide for starting and running your own bakery.
Get the essentials for starting up and running your own art shop in our practical guide.