You do not have to plan your growth alone. Government-funded services, business schools, trade bodies and lenders all offer help, and much of it is free. This guide explains where to start and what each kind of support can do for you.
Get free advice from your nation's business support service
Start with the free business support service for the part of the UK where your business is based. An adviser can review your plans, point you to funding and programmes you qualify for, and connect you with other local businesses and specialists.
Build your management skills
A growing business needs its leaders to spend less time doing the work and more time planning, managing people and managing money. Management training helps you make that change.
Find a mentor
A mentor is an experienced business person who helps you think through decisions. Unlike a consultant, a mentor does not usually do the work for you, and many mentoring schemes are free.
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Ask your local business support service
Growth Hubs and the devolved business support services can often introduce you to mentoring programmes in your area.
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Check your bank, accountant and trade body
Many banks, accountancy firms, trade associations and business schools run mentoring or peer-support programmes for their customers and members.
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Agree how it will work
Agree what you want help with, how often you will meet, and for how long, so that both of you know what to expect.
Join a trade association or business network
Trade associations represent businesses in one industry. Chambers of commerce and small business organisations bring together businesses in an area or of a similar size. Membership usually costs a fee, so check what you get before you join.
- Industry knowledge
- Updates on regulation, standards and market changes that affect your sector
- Contacts
- Events and networks where you can meet customers, suppliers and potential partners
- Standards and trust
- Some associations run codes of practice or accreditation schemes that customers recognise
- Practical help
- Template contracts, advice lines, training and sometimes discounted insurance or services
- A voice
- Associations represent their members' views to government and regulators
Find finance to grow
If you need to borrow to grow, government-backed schemes can make it easier to get a loan from a bank or other lender. You apply to the lender, not to the government.
You can search for grants, loans and other finance you may qualify for using the government's finance and support finder.