Our essential guide to starting a business
Essential guide to starting a business
To help you make your business idea a reality, we’ve created this short guide with all the information you need to get started. It includes tips and advice on a wide range of topics that are important to consider when getting your start-up off the ground.
- Conducting market research on customers and competitors
- Choosing a company structure
- Figuring out responsibilities for paying insurance and tax
- Developing your business strategy and sales forecast
- Writing your business plan
- Analysing your strengths and weaknesses
Ready to kickstart your business journey?
Getting started
A Start Up Loan can help you transform your business idea into reality. Read on to find out more about the application process, work out your loan repayments and find out about the mentoring you’ll be entitled to if your application is successful.
How to apply
Our application process is designed to allow you to demonstrate that you can afford a Start Up Loan and that you have a strong, viable business idea. Find out more to get started.
Loan calculator
Our loan repayment calculator is designed to help you work out what your total and monthly repayments for your Start Up Loan will be, based on the loan term and amount you choose.
Business mentoring
If your application is approved, you will be offered 12 months of free support from an experienced mentor, to offer you guidance and advice as you build your business.