How to Start a New Business

There are many business support services to help you set up and grow your business in the Falkirk area.  In the past year, over 250 new businesses received help, advice and finance from Business Gateway and its partners.

Business Start-Up Programme

The Business Gateway start-up programme includes an initial Business Information Session and a series of courses on topics such as setting goals and objectives, marketing, finance and legal requirements. When trading, businesses will continue to receive advice from a Business Advisor.

 

The programme is run by Falkirk Enterprise Action Trust| (FEAT). To talk to a business advisor and find out about the Business Start Up Programme in the Falkirk area contact Falkirk Enterprise Action Trust| :

Falkirk Enterprise Action Trust|
Newhouse Business Park
Newhouse Road
Grangemouth
FK3  8LL

 

Telephone:     01324 665 500

Email:   info@feat.org.uk|

Business Plan

An important step in starting your own business is to gather all your research and prepare a business plan. As the success of your business could in part be determined by this plan, it is important to get it right.

 

For professional help and advice on what to include and how to write it, Business Gateway| takes you through the step by step process.

Employing People

As your business grows you may find it necessary to employ additional help. Before you do this you need to have a good knowledge of the recruitment process and understand your responsibilities as an employer.

 

For guidance on these issues and more, read through the information provided by Business Gateway|.

Information Technology and eBusiness

In order to become and remain competitive in your market place, you will need to use and understand new technology. This is likely to include using computer systems and databases, email, websites and using business software.

 

For information on these issues as well as advice on data protection and security read the guidance provided by Business Gateway|.

 

Get safe online is a new initiative to protect against internet threats such as viruses, spam and online fraud. Advice and guidance is available to individuals and small businesses. For more information read on...|

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Planning Your Finances

As part of your business plan it is essential to look at how you plan to finance your business. You will need to know how much money will be required for different purposes and how to manage your cash flow effectively. Business Gateway| offers guidance on financial planning and management as well as advice on funding.

Sales and Marketing

 

Sales and marketing should be an integral part of your business plan; the research should be used to shape your product or service and help you to set out clear aims and objectives. Business Gateway| offers advice on how to explore the market, create a marketing plan, how to plan your networking and promote your business.

Taxes, Returns and Payroll

 

It is essential that you understand from the outset what is required of you in terms of annual tax, VAT returns and National Insurance.

 

For information and advice on these issues read through the information provided by Business Gateway| and HM Revenue and Customs|.