If you think you’ve got what it takes to start your own business there are distinct stages that you must follow:
- Start with an idea
- Get funding
- Research your market
- Develop and plan
- Find partners, suppliers and premises
- Set up your business
A comprehensive index of everything to consider when starting your own business is available at the GOV.UK website.
GOV.UK also has available for download "The Home Business Guide".
Further information and advice is available at the following links:
A HMRC E-learning tutorial 'Starting your own Business' is available at this link.
A telephone helpline that can answer questions about starting and running a business, such as how to write a business plan is available at this link.
New Enterprise Allowance
If you are currently receiving certain benefits you may be able to apply for the New Enterprise Allowance.
You must be able to show that you have a business idea that could work and be in receipt of one of the following benefits:
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support (if you’re a lone parent)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - if you’re in the Work-Related Activity Group
For more information follow this link.