Resources

Here are some useful sites – handy for anyone thinking of setting up, or already running a small business.

Government

• HMRC – HM Revenue & Customs – for Self Assessment, VAT, Income Tax, National Insurance, etc.
• Companies House – If you’re setting up a Limited Company or LLP.
• Dept of BIS – Government department for Business, Innovation & Skills.

Organisations

• Federation of Small Businesses – Largest small business representative group in the UK.
• British Franchise Association – Essential starting point if you’re interested in franchising.
• Forum of Private Business – Business support organisation.
• PCG – Group representing the freelance sector. Lots of benefits for members.
• Institute of Directors – Good advice for company owners, events, and support.
• British Chambers of Commerce – represents the interests of over 100,000 businesses.
• British Franchise Association – support for franchisors and franchisees.

Small Business Information

• Business Link – Government site providing guides to all aspects of setting up and running a business.
• Enterprise Nation – Small business support, useful guides, and the latest events.
• Contract Eye – Excellent site for people thinking of starting out in IT Contracting – includes information on IR35.
• ITJobsWatch – Provides a map of the UK IT jobs market, identifying the level of demand for particular IT skills with a guide to the average rates offered.
• Limited Company Help – Useful microsite from the Bytestart team if you’re thinking of setting up a company.
• IT Contractors – Good guides if you’re thinking of setting up as an IT contractor.
• IT Contractor Accountants – Microsite to help choose a service provider.

For further commercial small business links, please visit our web partners page.