General business advice

There is a wealth of advice, guidance and support available for businesses whether you’re a long established business or just thinking about starting up.

Whether you have a basic human resources or finance related query, want advice on using social media, or need support to develop a growth strategy there is an organisation, service or programme that can help. This information can be overwhelming and some businesses may find it difficult to navigate.

The enterprise team can help with this by talking to you to find out your aspirations and requirements and signposting you to the support that is best suited to you.

If you are just starting to think about growing your business and are doing some fact finding, then this list of agencies and organisations with information will be helpful.

Enterprise for Success

The Enterprise for Success programme, run by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP), offers help and advice to you if you are starting a new business, part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The flexible, free programme offers:

• One-to-one support from qualified advisors
• Business plan preparation and cash flow forecasts
• Specialist training courses covering marketing, finance, tax, business planning, e-commerce and PR
• Referral to support organisations and networks
• Support for businesses in their first year of trading

Who can apply for the scheme?  The support is available to those thinking of starting a business, or companies within their first year of trading (geographical restrictions may apply).

How can I apply? To find out how we can help you, contact us on 0800 0323488, or register your interest at online.

Growth Hub

The aim of the GBSLEP Growth Hub is to provide a holistic approach to business support. Through a single point of contact a business will connect to the information, advice or support it requires.

To register, please visit GBSLEP Growth Hub. For more information please call the local helpline on 0800 032 3488 or email [email protected] 

HMRC

Has an e-learning course called Starting your own business which covers issues such as tax, National Insurance, business records and expenses. In addition, My New Business is a comprehensive start up service which provides businesses with support and guidance on how to set up a new business 

Federation of small businesses (FSB)

As experts in business, the FSB offer members a wide range of vital business services including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in government. FSBc is to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions.

Life Coach Directory

Life Coach Directory was set up by a team who know how difficult it can be to find help and support when you truly need it. With a nationwide database of qualified coaches and NLP practitioners, visitors are able to search the site to find the support they need to take their next step. Find out more:

e: [email protected]

t: 0333 325 2511