North East Business Advice Offers This support and Impartial advice In Good Faith

Starting and growing a business can be a daunting task, but there are numerous resources available to help you along the way, many of which are free. This guide covers various aspects of business support, including financial aid, legal advice, marketing assistance, and more. At North East Advice Service, we are dedicated to offering all this help to businesses in our community. As a non-profit organisation, we aim to assist wherever possible and direct you to other organisations when needed. Our goal is to help your business thrive without incurring additional costs.

Financial Support and Grants

Government Grants and Funding
Government grants and funding schemes are often the first port of call for businesses seeking financial assistance. These grants can help with start-up costs, expansion, research and development, and more.

Innovate UK: Part of UK Research and Innovation, Innovate UK provides funding to businesses working on innovative projects. Learn more
Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs): LEPs offer various funding opportunities and business support services. Find your local LEP
UK Government Grants and Loans: The UK government offers a searchable database of grants and loans for businesses. Explore options                                         Private and Non-Profit Funding
Private organisations and non-profits also offer grants and funding opportunities.

Prince’s Trust: Offers financial support and mentoring to young entrepreneurs. Find out more
The National Lottery Community Fund: Provides funding for projects that bring community benefits. See details

Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI)  Helps businesses develop products that address public sector challenges. [Get started]

Legal Advice

Legal issues can be complex and costly, but several organisations provide free or low-cost legal advice to businesses.

Citizens Advice

Offers free legal advice on various business-related issues. [Visit their site]

LawWorks: Provides free legal help to small businesses and non-profits. Learn more

University Law Clinics: Many universities offer free legal advice through their law clinics. Check with local institutions for availability.

Business Planning and Mentorship

Having a solid business plan and access to experienced mentors can significantly impact your business’s success.

British Library Business & IP Centre; Offers free resources and workshops on business planning. Explore resources
MentorsMe ;  Connects businesses with experienced mentors. Find a mentor
-SCORE: Provides free mentoring and resources for business planning (Note: US-based but useful resources). [Visit SCORE]

Marketing and Online Presence

Effective marketing and a strong online presence are crucial for business success in the digital age.

 Free Marketing Tools and Resources

Google My Business: Helps you manage your online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. [Sign up]
Canva: Offers free graphic design tools to create marketing materials. [Start designing]
Mailchimp: Provides free email marketing services for small businesses. [Get started]

Digital Skills Training Google Digital Garage: Free online courses on digital marketing and more. [Enroll now]
HubSpot Academy: Free courses on inbound marketing, sales, and customer service. [Learn more]

 Networking and Support Communities

Building a network of fellow entrepreneurs and business professionals can provide invaluable support and opportunities.

-Federation of Small Businesses (FSB): Offers networking opportunities and business support services. Join FSB
Chambers of Commerce;  Local chambers provide networking events and business services. Find your local chamber
Meetup: Find local business networking events and groups. Search events

Accounting and Financial Management

Managing your finances effectively is crucial for business success. There are several free tools and resources to help with this.

Wave Accounting Offers free accounting and invoicing software. Sign up
HMRC: Provides free webinars and resources on business taxes and accounting. Access resources

Business Development and Growth

Expanding your business requires strategic planning and access to growth resources.

Enterprise Nation: Offers free resources and advice for business growth. Learn more
Growth Hubs: Regional hubs providing business support and advice. Find your local hub

Intellectual Property and Patents

Protecting your intellectual property is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.

-Intellectual Property Office (IPO): Provides free resources and advice on IP. Visit IPO PatLib Centres: Offer free IP advice and resources. Find a centre

Free Training and Development Programs

Continuous learning and skill development are vital for business success. Numerous organisations offer free training programs.

Coursera: Provides free online courses from top universities.  Explore courses
Open University: Offers free online courses in various subjects.  Visit OpenLearn

Sustainable Business Practices

Incorporating sustainable practices can benefit both your business and the environment.

Carbon Trust: Offers free advice and resources on sustainability. Learn more
WRAP: Provides guidance on waste reduction and sustainability. Visit WRAP

Exporting and International Trade

Expanding your market internationally can provide new growth opportunities.

-Department for International Trade (DIT): Offers free export advice and support. Get started
Exporting is GREAT: Provides resources and guidance for UK exporters. Explore resources

Support for Specific Business Types

Different types of businesses have unique needs. Here are some resources tailored to specific industries.

Tech Startups

Tech Nation: Provides support and resources for UK tech startups.  Learn more
Digital Catapult: Offers programmes and support for digital businesses. Visit Digital Catapult

Social Enterprises

Social Enterprise UK: Provides support and resources for social enterprises.  Join SEUK
– **Big Society Capital**: Offers funding and support for social impact projects. Learn more

Creative Industries

Creative England: Supports creative businesses with funding and advice. Find out more
Arts Council England: Provides grants and support for creative projects. Explore options

Conclusion

Navigating the world of business support can be challenging, but with the right resources, you can access a wealth of free help and advice to ensure your business thrives. From financial aid and legal advice to marketing support and networking opportunities, there are numerous avenues to explore.

At North East Advice Service, we offer all this help to businesses in our community. As a non-profit organisation, we are dedicated to assisting wherever possible and directing you to other organisations when needed. Utilize these resources to build a strong foundation, grow your business, and achieve your entrepreneurial goals.

For more detailed information and to access these resources, visit the links provided and start your journey towards business success today.