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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
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
Attract funding for your invention
Explore funding options for development of new products and ideas, including equity finance, government grants, loans, crowdfunding and more
Protecting intellectual property
How to conduct an audit of your business' intellectual property rights and take steps to protect and secure your IP
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.
Get patent protection for your business
Find out how to patent a product, and protect your ideas or inventions by applying for a patent and securing your patent rights
Trade marks
Introduction to trade marking – how to choose, search for, register and protect trade marks in the UK or abroad
Intellectual property: the basics
How to recognise and use different types of intellectual property rights to protect your business' inventions and ideas
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.
Setting up an innovation start-up
How to build an innovative start-up, develop a business plan for innovation and find the right finance and exit options for your business
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.
How to pitch your music
Follow these simple steps to pitch your music to venues and to gig promoters.
Find an audience for your show
Learn how to increase gig attendance and use simple strategies to help you get more fans through the door.