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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.

About

23 September 2014

We are the focal point for enterprise and entrepreneurship learning at The University of Manchester.

Based within the Alliance Manchester Business School, we are recognised as a leader in enterprise and entrepreneurship education and aim to inspire, educate and develop enterprising individuals and enable them to positively impact the growth of dynamic organisations.

The University of Manchester is one of the UK’s leading research institutions with a history of pioneering scientific and engineering breakthroughs – from the splitting of the atom and the world’s first computer, to the recent discovery of the ‘super-material’ Graphene.

Through enterprise and entrepreneurship teaching, learning and business start-up support, our students can capitalise on these research outcomes - transferring knowledge from the classrooms and laboratories to market opportunities. ‘Entrepreneurship for All’ at Manchester can be the driving force to improve the world in which we live – we have the knowledge and we need to apply it for economic and social gain.

Entrepreneurship is vital in the current economic climate and is a driver of growth through the setting up of successful new ventures and the development of existing organisations. There is growing demand for graduates who can solve problems, innovate, see opportunity, manage risk and apply their subject knowledge and skills.

The University has a rich history of graduate entrepreneurial success and this will carry forward in future years with continued high quality research output and an increasing focus on enterprise and entrepreneurship.

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