Information and support for Manchester residents
Information
Manchester Library's Ask About Business service offers a range of resources to help people start their own company: finding business ideas, business planning, market research, trade and business directories, intellectual property advice, free credit checks.
Gov.uk is the free national information service for start up and established businesses.
- online guides, tutorials and videos on key business topics;
- government services online including ContractsFinder;
- information about grants, events and business support schemes.
Helpline: 0845 6009006.
Co-operatives UK has a 10 step guide to setting up a co-operative.
StartUp Britain is a national initiative by and for employers that offers discounted business services and promotes enterprise events and initiatives.
Business In You is a national public and private sector led information campaign aimed at inspiring people to start and grow their business.
Advice and support
Blue Orchid leads the delivery of the Business Start Up Support (BSUS) programme in Manchester. Partners include Bolton Business Ventures, The Prince's Trust and Franchising Works. Services include business planning support, training, workshops, 1-2-1 advice, networking and mentor support.
Blue Orchid and Business Finance Solutions deliver the StartUp Loans UK scheme aimed at young people aged 18 - 24. Blue Orchid delivers business planning support and Business Finance Solutions the mentor and loan elements. For more information call Business Finance Solutions on 0161 2374021.
Willow Park Housing Trust's Enterprise Centre offers start up support and business premises for Wythenshawe residents.
Franchising Works supports people that want to set up a franchise.
The Co-operative Enterprise Hub provides advice, training and access to small grants or loans to help people or organisations set up and run a co-operative.
Market trading can be a career in its own right but also an affordable and flexible way to start early trading.