Links

Useful Business Start-Up Websites

There are now lots of places where you can go for more help with setting up a business. Here are some of the most useful websites you might like to take a look at:

British Chambers of Commerce

www.britishchambers.org.uk

The British Chambers of Commerce comprise nationally a network of quality-accredited Chambers of Commerce, all uniquely positioned at the heart of the business community in the UK. Their Policy Unit campaigns nationally on behalf of Accredited Chambers’ 100,000 members, exerting powerful influence on the Government to create a more favourable business environment.

Business Scotland

www.business.scotland.gov.uk

Business Scotland is a service provided by the Scottish Government and its local partners. It provides a single access point to a range of integrated services for businesses inScotland. The website details start-up, growth and information services available.

Gov.UK

www.gov.uk

See the ‘Business and Self Employed’ section. This site collects together information previously held on several separate government sites including the Department for Business Innovation & Skills (BIS).

You can find advice about Government funding, grants, legislation and starting a business. You can also find links to local organisations offering business help.

Companies House

www.companies-house.gov.uk

Companies House is an government agency. They deal with the registration and provision of company information. Guidance booklets and company information are available.

Federation of Small Businesses

www.fsb.org.uk

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is the voice of the small business sector and their website allows you to find out what they are saying to the media, Parliament and others in the political and economic fields. The website contains information concerning the key issues facing the small business sector today.

Forum of Private Business

www.fpb.co.uk

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) offers advice on problems such as red tape, employment law, health and safety and many other issues. They offer practical help

through their unique business solutions, while lobbying for members to change laws and policies for their future benefit.

HM Revenue & Customs

www.hmrc.gov.uk

HM Revenue & Customs has assumed the duties of the previously separate Inland Revenue and Customs & Excise departments. Their site has lots of information about personal and company tax, employing others and VAT.

Invest Northern Ireland

www.investni.com

Information for businesses in Northern Ireland.

Scottish Enterprise

www.scottish-enterprise.com

Scottish Enterprise is Scotland’s main economic development agency, funded by the Scottish Executive. The website offers help to widen your skills to develop and grow your business.

Business Wales

http://business.wales.gov.uk

Information for businesses in Wales.