Starting a Business
Many people choose to start a business every
year. This maybe because they have identified a market niche, have
additional specialised knowledge or want to turn a past time into a
career.
There are many aspects to a business that have
to be considered when starting out, for example Finance, Marketing,
Legal requirements, Human Resources to name but a few. This
can be very daunting, but there are a number of resources available
to help you through the process of creating a successful
business.
Business Link Northwest
Business Link is
the Governments main provider of advice and support to businesses
in England. You can speak to a trained adviser via their
telephone helpline who can provide you with a pack of information
tailored to your new business. Plus they can help you to
identify and access the support available to you. If you are
not ready to speak to an adviser, they provide a wealth of
information and diagnostic tools via their website to help get you
started.
Chambers of Commerce
East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise
East Cheshire Chamber of
Commerce and Enterprise offers free help and advice on a
one to one basis with a business advisor.
Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise
Macclesfield Chamber of
Commerce and Enterprise offers free help and advice
on a one to one basis with a Business Advisor. The Chamber also run
workshops to develop all the skills you need to start up and run a
successful business.
South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce
South
Cheshire Chamber of Commerce provides a free impartial start-up
advisory service to entrepreneurs in South Cheshire. You can sit
down with a trained business adviser and discuss your business
ideas. Help will be given on any aspect of planning and
starting your business.
Other Sources
- Enterprise Coaching Crewe a
free one to one advice service for potential entrepreneurs in
the Crewe area.
- Enrich offers
a range of workshops, advice clinics and support tailored
specifically for food and drink businesses.
Premises
Cheshire East Council has a business premises search service.
Visit our Sites and Premises pages to
search the property database.
Market Research
When starting a business it is very wise to carry out background
research into your chosen market. This will help you to
identify who your likely customers are and who your main
competitors will be. Good research will help you build a
strong business plan which will not only help you get your business
off to the right start; it is your key marketing document when you
approach financial institutions for backing.
Business Information Service
The Business
Information Service can help you access a wide range
of business information, including: market research, credit
checks and statistical information.
Useful Links
In addition to the local resources, the
following national organisations offer further sources
of information:
Prime Business Club
Support and advice for individuals over 50 thinking of starting a
business.
Princes Trust
Support and advice for individuals aged 18-30
Shell LiveWIRE
Support for Entrepreneurs aged 16-30