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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

June 2023

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The Federation of Small Businesses is calling on the government to simplify customs declarations procedures as it emerges that most small firms that trade overseas rely on expensive intermediaries to complete complicated customs paperwork.
Virgin StartUp has announced that it will be distributing up to £36 million in Start Up Loans to early-stage founders over the next two years.
Seven in ten small business owners say their bank ignores them and even "actively discriminates against them in favour of larger companies" according to a new survey.
Taxpayers now have until April 2025 to fill gaps in their National Insurance record from April 2006, giving them a chance to increase their State Pension.
The number of small businesses in the UK is growing; however, it's "one of the most challenging times to be a small business owner" according to retail expert Mary Portas.
The increased cost of doing business is preventing the UK's 5.5m small and medium-sized businesses from taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, according to new research.
The Small Business Saturday campaign is calling on UK small firms to put themselves forward for the SmallBiz100 which showcases the best of Britain's small business community.