Skip to main content
Thinking about starting a business? Have an idea to explore – or ready to launch? The MEC Resource Centre is here to support you

Search

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

July 2021

Displaying 1 - 12 of 12
12 results shown

The UK's leading business groups are calling on the government to rethink its self-isolation strategy and focus on daily testing to keep more people at work.

A new report has warned that the government's levelling-up agenda will fall short unless more is done to provide business advice to smaller firms.

New research shows that Brits are worried about the continuing decline of the high street, a process that has been accelerated by the pandemic.

A new study has found that shoppers spend 54% less with small businesses that have not updated their websites compared to those that have.

Self-employed workers can now claim the fifth and final government grant but to be eligible they must demonstrate that their turnover has fallen as a result of the pandemic.

Many small businesses are continuing to ask customers to wear masks, use sanitiser and respect social distancing even after COVID restrictions have been lifted.

HMRC has reminded employers that they are legally obliged to pay students and other summer workers at least the National Minimum Wage (NMW).

The CBI has devised a six-point plan for businesses to reopen successfully and learn to live with the COVID virus.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has welcomed news that full reopening of the UK economy will go ahead on 19 July, but fears lack of clear guidance will leave businesses uncertain of how to protect their employees and customers.  

A new study into employee share schemes has found that they significantly boost company growth, make recruitment easier and improve employee retention.

The government will remove the vast majority of COVID restrictions from 19 July - although it is urging people and businesses to remain cautious - but not everyone thinks a mass return to the workplace is a good idea.

An estimated 26,000 ecommerce sellers in the UK face additional red tape costs from July as the EU introduces new VAT rules on sales from outside the bloc.