Research and develop your business ideas, new products and services

Family-run businesses

A family-run business is typically one in which more than half the shares are controlled by members of the same family…

Prepare a business plan

It is essential to have a realistic, working business plan when you’re starting up a business.

Thinking about starting a social enterprise?

Social enterprises are businesses with a social purpose. They have social aims…

Stock control and inventory

Stock control, otherwise known as inventory control, is used to show how much stock you have at any one time…

Common mistakes when starting up — and how to avoid them

Introduction

How do I survive until my business is off the ground?

Legal structures: the basics

If you are considering setting up a business, it’s worth thinking…

Financial and management accounts: the basics

The accounting needs of your business will vary according to its size, type and…

Starting a business when economic conditions are tough