Free Business Resources

Many free business resources are available; we will try to include as many as possible to help you find the information required for your business. Some are internal resources, while others are external and provide valuable information.

Free Business Resources – Excel Accounting Templates

We have written over 25 free Excel bookkeeping templates to help your business with accounting procedures. These templates include cash book, petty cash, bank reconciliation, cash receipts, stock control, sales invoice, profit & Loss and balance sheet. Our spreadsheets are used by many small businesses and charities, with over 350,000 downloads.

Accounting Calculators

Accounting calculators are a valuable tool for small businesses. They can help you to understand your business finances and make informed decisions. Various accounting calculators, including markup, self-employed taxes, VAT and ratios, are available.

Accounting Courses

Looking to learn essential bookkeeping skills without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! There are some high-quality free bookkeeping courses available online. These courses cover the basics, from understanding financial statements to managing day-to-day transactions. Providers like Udemy and Skillshare offer introductory courses, while even industry giants like QuickBooks and Xero provide free training resources to familiarise you with their software.

We also provide valuable information on the basics of accounting and bookkeeping so you can learn the essentials and get started. It includes everything from recording income and expenses to producing financial reports and how to read them.

The Kings Trust

The King’s Trust is a great resource for young UK entrepreneurs (aged 18-30). Their Enterprise programme helps you turn your business idea into reality with workshops, mentoring, and funding. They offer:

  • Grants: Up to £500 to test your idea and further funding to help you launch.
  • Support: Expert advice and guidance to navigate the business’s challenges.

Visit their website to learn more and see if you qualify for their support.

Banking

Starting a business? Save on essential costs with free banking for new customers! Many banks offer no monthly fees and free transactions for a set period. But don’t stop there – some banks, like NatWest and RBS, also give free access to FreeAgent’s accounting software with your new account. This helps you manage invoices, expenses, and taxes easily. Compare different banking options, choose the best fit, and compare fees.

Forums – Business Resources

An excellent business forum is UK Business Forums – if you want to know anything about business, there is a vast wealth of knowledge from accountants to solicitors.

Free Business Directory.

General Business

Government Services Government Services offers a wealth of resources for small businesses in the UK. They provide comprehensive information and support on a wide range of topics essential to running your business, including:

  • Payroll: Learn how to set up and manage payroll, comply with PAYE regulations, and understand your responsibilities as an employer.
  • VAT: Understand your VAT obligations, register for VAT, and learn about different VAT schemes.
  • Taxes: Get guidance on various taxes, including Corporation Tax, Income Tax, and National Insurance, with tools and resources to help you file correctly.
  • General Business: Find information on starting a business, legal structures, licenses and permits, and other regulatory requirements.

Human Resources

Human Resource Solutions offer lots of free advice for having employees. The website includes lots of free policy templates. When employing staff, the correct documentation must be in place.

Insurance for Small Business

Navigating the world of business insurance can feel overwhelming, especially with the sheer number of policies and providers available. Fortunately, resources like Business Insurance advice offer valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions. They break down the different types of insurance, such as professional indemnity, public liability, and employer’s liability, explaining what each covers and why it might be relevant to your business.

Free Marketing Resources for Your Business

Getting your business noticed can be challenging, especially when you’re on a tight budget. Luckily, plenty of free marketing resources are available to help you reach your target audience and grow your business. Here are a few to consider:

  • Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter offer free tools to create business profiles, connect with potential customers, and share engaging content.
  • Email Marketing: Services like Mailchimp and Sender allow you to build email lists and send newsletters or promotional campaigns to nurture relationships with your audience.
  • Content Marketing: Creating valuable content like blog posts, articles, and videos can attract potential customers to your website and establish your expertise.
  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Learn the basics of SEO to improve your website’s visibility in search engine results and drive organic traffic.
  • Free Online Tools: Explore websites like Canva for creating visual content and Google Analytics for tracking your website’s performance.

Legal

Software

Start-ups

Launching a new business can feel daunting, but thankfully, there’s a wealth of online resources to guide you through those first steps. For free and comprehensive advice, check out Startups.co.uk. They offer a treasure trove of information, including:

  • Business ideas: Explore various sectors and find inspiration for your venture.
  • Step-by-step guides: Learn how to write a business plan, secure funding, and navigate legal requirements.
  • Practical advice: Get tips on marketing, sales, and operations.
  • Expert insights: Benefit from articles and resources created by experienced entrepreneurs.

Startups.co.uk is a valuable resource to help you turn your business dream into a reality.

VAT and Taxation

The HMRC website has all the information required for all your VAT and taxation issues.

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