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These are just some of the organisations available to support your entrepreneurial journey:

Starting a business can seem daunting. We have identified a short checklist to help you become self-employed:

• Develop a commercial business idea
• Do an in-depth market research
• Decide on your company name
• Develop your business plan – including your vision and mission statements
• Develop your brand identity and marketing plan
• Consider your finances and find the right support
• Organise your legal paperwork
• Register your company
• Make sure you have relevant insurance
• Get online – relevant channels for your type of business
• Launch and enjoy being self-employed

There are many things to consider when starting a new business venture, such as business structure, location, budgeting and paying tax. There are also different kinds of self-employed set ups, such as Sole Traders, Partnerships, Private Limited Companies, Limited Partnerships and Limited Liability partnerships (LLP). Ìý

Here are a few helpful tips to consider when starting out:

• Set your goal
• Establish your vision and mission
• Know your market by researching your competitions
• Know your finances - understand your starting budget and operational costs
• Research available support from regional organisations (Universities, Growth Hubs, Local Authorities, Chamber of Commers, Specialist Support providers)
• Be concise and specific in your business plan
• Spend time on your marketing activity and invest in your brand awareness
• Understand your customer’s needs
• Think positively
• Build a network
• Don’t give up when you get knocked down
• Be yourself and believe in what you do