Search results
Finding a business idea when unemployed
Tips and resources to help you to find a successful business idea, concept, product or service to base your business on.
How to respond to changes in your business market
How to research and understand your marketplace, customers and competitors to improve your business performance.
Northern Ireland business support finder
A searchable database of advisory and financial assistance - find advice, expertise, equity, grants, loans, and recognition awards.
Naming your business as a sole trader
What you can and cannot name your company as a sole trader, including words you need permission to use
Naming your business partnership
What you can and cannot name your business partnership in the UK, including words you need permission to use
Setting up a business partnership
The steps you need to follow to create and set up a business partnership and details of how responsibility is shared
Financial advice for seasonal businesses
How seasonal businesses can plan their cashflow, staff and stock levels and other activities.
Writing a business plan: 5 top tips
Five key steps that can help you to prepare a successful business plan when you're starting a business.
Checklist: set up as a sole trader
A checklist of things you must do, and organisations you must make contact with, to set yourself up as a sole trader
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard compliance
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard is applicable to any organisation that stores, transmits or processes cardholder information.
Advantages and disadvantages of using a payment-processing company
Using payment-processing companies to handle online card transactions has advantages, but it is also worthwhile to consider the disadvantages.
Advantages and disadvantages of selling through online marketplaces
Using an online marketplace for your business has many advantages, but it is also worthwhile to consider the disadvantages.
Checklist: applying for an internet merchant account
The requirements you will need to satisfy when applying to a bank for an internet merchant account.
Start a business from home
Guidance and practical tips on starting a home-based business and local support to help establish your home business
How bankruptcy petitions work
How to issue a bankruptcy petition
Choosing the right legal route for your debt claim
Differences between the small claims track and the high court
Winding up and bankruptcy petitions
How to issue a petition to close the business or enforce a judgment if your customer does not pay you
Using solicitors and debt recovery agents
In certain cases when collecting money owed to you it may be sensible to seek professional help
Issuing your debt claim
The forms and evidence you will need to issue a claim for payment
What happens after your debt claim has been served
Court procedures after your claim has been issued, and what the defendant's and your options are