Help for new businesses

Launching a new business is an exciting and rewarding experience, but nobody expects you to know everything about it right at the start. True, you're expected to know your own products and services, and the market in which you're operating. But there's much more to it than that.

If you don't have lots of experience in running your accounts, arranging commercial insurance or marketing your services, for example, there are plenty of places where you can get help. Your first start should be your local Business Link. This is a Government agency, organised regionally, that provides information and support for all small businesses - whether they are start-ups, established companies or firms looking to expand. It's particularly strong on the administrative side of running a SME, with guidance on taxation, employment, finance and regulations. But it also has plenty of...