Start-up Tools

Getting the right support and having access to the right tools is essential to setting up and growing your business. 

Business Planning

Business planning is essential to launch and grow your business, secure funding or investment or target new markets. Business Gateshead has put together a comprehensive template that business owners can use to create a business plan, which is available todownload here. (PDF, 437 KB)(opens new window). There are also a range of tools available to assist in the initial stages of setting up and running a business, including: 

• An essential guide to starting a business
• Marketing
• PR
• SEO
• Market Sector Analysis

To access these, please contact a member of the Business Gateshead Team.

HMRC Support

E-Learning Package

This wide ranging guide (opens new window) will help you register with HMRC, understand what taxes you need to pay, what records to keep and expenses to claim.

Business Forum

• HMRC's online forum (opens new window) is aimed at start-ups and small businesses, and allows users to ask advisors questions such as paying tax, tax returns and how to use the HMRC digital service.

Video Guides

• HMRC have a range of video guides (opens new window) on all things self-employment which can be accessed here.

Record Keeping

• It is a legal requirement to keep a number of business records (opens new window) to include for your annual self-assessment return.

Social Enterprises

Do you have a business idea that can make money and change lives?

Talk to our team of dedicated business advisors about your ideas and find out what help is available. We can provide you with advice and support in setting up and running a successful social enterprise.

Social Enterprise UK have a start-up guide (PDF, 882 KB)(opens new window) for Social Enterprises that is available for you to download.

For additional information and advice, please contact one of our Business Gateshead Advisors