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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

February 2024

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New research has found that many business owners are reluctant to take out loans to help grow their business because of the risk to their personal assets, including their homes.
The fee that businesses have to pay to register a limited company with Companies House is to increase significantly from 1 May 2024.
Despite challenging conditions, the number of UK digital micro businesses turning over more than £ 100,000 a year grew substantially during 2023, and almost a fifth (17%) now bring in six-figure sums, according to new figures published this week.
A new survey of UK small business owners has found that 69% of those polled said they would consider changing banks this year, as many seek new ways to grow their business.
Amazon is withholding payments from hundreds of UK sellers while it conducts new VAT checks; some traders are reporting that they are still waiting to be paid even though they have supplied all the necessary documentation.

Street food stalls, property letting businesses and online retailers were the biggest growth sectors in 2023, as the number of UK start-ups increased by 12% compared to 2022.

According to a new survey by Capital on Tap, only 1% of small businesses in the UK have never had to deal with an overdue invoice
Funding is a significant barrier for would-be entrepreneurs but new research has found that most people think that business start-up costs are far higher than they really are.
Despite good intentions - especially at this time of year - many Brits lack the time or energy to exercise outside of work, according to a new report.
HMRC has revealed that a record number of Self Assessment tax returns were submitted by the filing deadline.