Starting a Business

North Kesteven’s economy is dominated by micro businesses - that’s enterprises with fewer than 10 employees. There are thousands upon thousands of them operating successfully in all parts of the district in sectors as diverse as aeronautical engineering, food, telecommunications, construction and retail. Small businesses are the life-blood of our economy and if they are thriving, the district thrives.

Deciding to start your own business is a big deal but it’s not as hard as you think. On the other hand, running a business, growing it and making a living out of it for you and your family or dependents isn’t easy, and the failure rate is high. Often the reasons for failure are nothing to do with the quality of the business idea or the determination of the owner to succeed but a failure to plan properly from the start, to manage business finances, get the marketing right or scope the level of risk. It is important to seek as much help and advice as you can from the outset so that you can decide whether running your own business is right for you and how you can give yourself the best chance of success.

Some of the advice you need is available free from public sector organisations ranging from Job Centre Plus to Business Link but increasingly the private sector and in particular private sector business networks are being encouraged to offer more support. There are many private sector companies who offer business advice and support to new businesses ranging from accountants and solicitors, to High Street Banks and venture capitalists from The Federation of Small Businesses, to Total Networking, Start-up Britain, Business Clubs, Business Improvement Districts and Chambers of Commerce.

You will find links or information on all these sources on the Starting a Business Pages or for more information contact the Business Support Officer on 01529 308143.