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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.

Types of business

So you have decided to start your own business. Discover over 180 ‘How to guides’ covering how you can start and grow your business. For advice on the legal aspects of starting your business, head over to the Law Donut. Find sector trends for your fledgling business on the Marketing Donut.

Resource topics

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You'll find all you need to start up and run your own internet cafe in our practical guide.
You'll find all you need to start up and run your own ice cream parlour in our practical guide.
Get the essentials for starting up and running your own fish and chip shop from our practical guide.
Our guide will help you start up and run your own Chinese catering business.
Read our practical guide to opening and running your own cafe.
Read our in-depth practical guide to starting up and running your own reflexology practice.
You'll find all you need to start up and run your own physiotherapy practice in our practical guide.
A practical guide to starting and running your own pharmacy or buying an existing pharmacy, including how to identify your target market and what products and services to offer.
You'll find all you need to start up and run your own osteopath business in our practical guide.
You'll find all you need to start up and run your own optician business in our practical guide.
Our guide gives you the essentials you need for starting up and running your own nutritional therapy business.
Our guide covers the key issues for starting and running your own dental practice.
Get the essentials for starting up and running your own dental lab in our practical guide.
Check out our practical guide for starting and running your own chiropractic clinic.
Our guide gives you all the essentials for starting up and running your own chiropody practice.
Read our in-depth practical guide to starting up and running your own herbal medicine practice.
Read our practical guide to starting up and running your own care or nursing home.
Check out our practical guide for starting and running your own aromatherapy business.
Our practical guide will help you start up and run your own acupuncture practice.
Check out our practical guide for help with starting and running your window cleaning business.