Business guides

A complete look at what it takes to keep your business moving forward with confidence.

Starting a business

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What is a limited company? A simple guide for UK entrepreneurs

Find out how a limited company can protect your personal assets, provide tax advantages, and enhance your business’s credibility.

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What is a sole trader? A no-nonsense guide to getting started

Thinking of starting a business? Learn how to take full control, manage your taxes, and keep things simple with this straightforward guide to being a sole trader.

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How to identify and reach your target audience: a complete guide

Learn how to define, find and market products and services to your target audience using real-world examples and simple steps to grow your small business.

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Running a business

Owner of a car repair company at his desk doing paperwork.

VAT returns explained: complete guide for UK small businesses

Learn how to stay compliant with HMRC, file VAT returns accurately, avoid penalties and manage VAT with confidence using this practical guide.

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Businessman working on his shop on a laptop and phone

13 golden rules for managing your small business finances

Discover the key rules for managing your business finances to improve your chances of long-term success.

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Business owner on tablet in a cafe

Business expenses: what you can (and can’t) claim

Discover what counts as a business expense and how claiming such expenses can lower your tax bill.

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Growing a business

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Debt financing explained: is it the right choice for your business?

Explore our guide to debt financing for small businesses and whether it’s right for you. Learn about its benefits, drawbacks and top funding sources.

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The letters AI appear in the palm of a hand

How to use AI safely and responsibly in your business

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers businesses a range of efficient ways of working, but it’s not entirely risk free.

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Debt vs equity financing: key differences for small businesses

Discover the differences between debt and equity financing. This guide outlines pros and cons, helping small businesses choose the best path for growth.

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All business guides

Businessman working on his laptop in the evening

No-credit-check business loans: a practical guide to funding options

All business loan providers carry out credit checks, but some focus more on your firm’s revenue and cash flow than your credit score. Find out more here...

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Owner of a car repair company at his desk doing paperwork.

VAT returns explained: complete guide for UK small businesses

Learn how to stay compliant with HMRC, file VAT returns accurately, avoid penalties and manage VAT with confidence using this practical guide.

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 Two colleagues look at packaging for their small business

10 steps to running a successful business

Learn the key steps to running a successful business, from managing finances and marketing to staying compliant and protecting your well-being.

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Smiling business people gathered around a conference table. In the middle, one man is shaking hands with the person opposite, signalling an agreement.

SEIS vs EIS explained: key differences and how each scheme works

Compare SEIS and EIS for startup funding, including limits, time frames and how to apply for HMRC Advance Assurance.

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Small business owners face a growing challenge: the “infinite workday” is stretching hours and draining productivity. To protect teams from burnout and sustain creativity, leaders must set clear boundaries, rethink workflows, and prioritise wellbeing.

Blurred lines between work and home are harming SME productivity – here’s how to fix it

Small business owners face a growing challenge: the “infinite workday” is stretching hours and draining productivity.

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Your business name is more than a label – it’s your first impression. The right name builds trust and sets you apart, while the wrong one can confuse customers or harm your brand.

This is why your business name matters

The right business name builds trust and sets you apart, while the wrong one can confuse customers or harm your brand.

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