GOV.UK
1. Start with an idea
If you’re thinking of starting up a business, you’ll first need to come up with a realistic idea that you can turn into a product or service.
Find local support, including help with developing business ideas:
- England - National Enterprise Network
- Scotland - Business Gateway
- Northern Ireland - NI Business Info
- Wales - Business Wales
Register your intellectual property
You might have already come up with an idea for a business you think there’s a market for, or invented something you think people will want to buy. Find out how to register your intellectual property to make sure nobody copies it without your permission.
Turn your idea into a business
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Research your market - identify potential customers. Talk to them and find out if your idea is meeting a real need.
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Develop and plan - test your product or service with real customers, make changes, and test it again. Keep doing this until you’re sure there’s a demand for it.
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Find partners and suppliers - think about who you’re going to work with to develop and sell your idea.
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Set up your business - work out which legal structure is right for you, and whether you want to sell shares.
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Get funding - explore different sources of business finance, from bank loans to government-backed schemes.
You might be able to get support and financial help from Jobcentre Plus if you’re unemployed.
Contact the business support helpline in your area for help and advice on starting or growing your business.