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Starting up in business

The issues to consider when starting up in business.

Concise information on the key issues to consider when starting up in business. Click on the links below to access the relevant information.

Business plans

Every new business should have a business plan. It is the key to success. If you need finance, no bank manager will lend money without a considered plan. We consider why you should draw up a plan and what it should include.

Business structures - which should I use?

Having made the decision to be your own boss, it is important to decide the best legal and taxation structure for your enterprise. The structure for you will depend on your personal situation and your future plans. Consider the options available.

Considerations when starting a business

It is the ambition of many people to run their own business but there are many issues and pitfalls to consider. What issues should you consider when setting up in business?

Could I really make a go of it?

If you are looking to run your own business, it is worth looking at what is required to succeed.

Credit control

We consider what you need to be checking in order to understand if your customer can support the amount of credit you are granting.

Insuring your business

When starting a new business, you will no doubt recognise the need for insurance. It can provide compensation and peace of mind should things go wrong but can also represent a significant cost. We consider the types of insurance you may need.

Raising finance

Every business needs finance - we look at what type of finance is best suited to the development of your business.

Sources of finance

The financing of your business is the most fundamental aspect of its management. Get the financing right and you will have a healthy business, positive cash flows and ultimately a profitable enterprise. We summarise the means of finance that are available and where we can help.

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05 Feb 2026

Pubs get 15% business rates relief

Pubs and live music venues in England will be given a 15% discount on their business rates bills from April and will not see increases for two years, the government announced.

05 Feb 2026

Tax timebomb poses existential threat to high streets, government warned

Small businesses such as cafes, shops and hairdressers are facing three years of business rates misery with an average 52% hike in bills, analysis from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has revealed.