Useful Links
This is aimed at SMEs. It has a clear and simple design and combines news with practical advice. There’s plenty of practical advice in a no-nonsense style.
An independent organisation aiming to foster success in young people to start and develop their own businesses. Also hosts a national competition for start-ups to accelerate young business ideas. Free advice for 16 to 30 year olds.
www.newbusiness.co.uk
A comprehensive website dedicated to new businesses.
www.shell-livewire.org
Provides the latest information on how Shell Livewire assists people aged 16-30 who are looking to start their own business.
www.j4b.co.uk
Offers a simple 4-step grant search service. It has comprehensive, up-to-date information on business grants currently available in only a few seconds. It contains regional information on around 5,000 capital grants.
www.businesslink.gov.uk
Practical advice for business (managed by the DTI).
Business Information
www.britishchambers.org.uk
This is the site of the British Chamber of Commerce, the national voice of local business providing a range of services including international trade, training and cost-effective commercial services.
www.fsb.org.uk
The Federation of Small Business is the leading political lobby for British small business.
www.yell.com
Home of the online version of the Yellow Pages. Search by keywords and browse by category. A hugely impressive site with massive investment.
www.accountingweb.co.uk
A website designed for the accountancy community providing accounting and taxation information.
www.patent.gov.uk
The UK Patent Office
Government
www.direct.gov.uk
This site aims to tell you “everything” about the UK government.
www.hmrc.gov.uk
Advice for small businesses and those going self-employed. It’s surprisingly helpful and full of useful information.
www.companies-house.gov.uk
This provides information for limited companies, including name searches and basic company information.
www.bis.gov.uk
The Department for Business Innovation and Skills.
www.hse.gov.uk
Government health and safety advice.
www.statistics.gov.uk
This is the site of the National Statistics Office. It’s updated regularly.Business News
www.ft.com
Up to the minute news, information and analysis.
www.bbc.co.uk
Find the latest news on the BBC’s website.
