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Where to find a business to buy
Newspapers, trade journals, adverts, magazines, websites and word of mouth will help you find businesses for sale.
What type of business should I buy?
How to choose the right business for you.
Make sure a business is worth buying: due diligence
Research the new business to ensure it is right for you, use solicitors and accountants to help you.
Find and develop a business idea
The first steps to finding and developing a business idea and the research you might need to undertake
Set up a business partnership
How to set up a limited partnership, choose a business name, appoint partners and register with Companies House
Buy a franchise
What franchising is, how to find and assess franchise opportunities and how to buy a franchise.
Buy an existing business
Advantages and disadvantages of buying an existing business including how to assess and value it.
Existing employees when buying a business
Your legal obligations towards staff already working for the new company.
How to calculate the value of a business
How to find out whether the business you want to buy will be profitable and value for money.
Set up as a sole trader
Sole traders must register with HM Revenue and Customs and follow certain rules on running and naming their business
Show strong financial performance when selling your business
How to get your business finances in good order and present your accounts in a clear, attractive way.
Set up a basic record-keeping system
What you need to record and for how long, with step-by-step guidance on setting up your own system.
Family business
Understand the benefits and issues that affect family-run businesses, employing family members or financing from friends and family
Best practice when playing gigs
Simple tips on how to prepare for your gigs and play memorable live shows.
How to find a venue for your gig
How to find and book the right venue for your live show.
How to approach gig promoters
Understand how gig promoters work and what they expect from you as a band or an artist.
Open a pop-up shop: 6 things you should know
Top tips for setting up a pop-up shop in retail spaces to start a business or promote a new product line or service.
Creative business support and funding
Discover where to find advice, funding and skills support for creative businesses in Northern Ireland.
How to promote your gig
There are many ways to advertise your gig – from traditional leaflets and posters, to social media promotion and email marketing.
Negotiate a gig deal
Find out what type of gig deals are there, how payments work in the gig business and how to negotiate booking arrangements.