Skip to content

Starting a Business

Ready to start your business journey? We’re here to help.

Got a business idea but not sure how to bring it to life? Whether you’re just exploring a business concept or have already taken your first steps in getting a new business off the ground, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

Explore our business resources and access expert advice to build strong foundations – from business planning and legal structure to funding, marketing, and finding your first customers.

Speak to an advisor

Need help now?

Talk to a Business Adviser to get tailored, one-to-one support.

Lauch a business

Launching a hospitality, leisure or tourism business in Greater Lincolnshire?

If you’re starting a business in the visitor economy, we've gathered specialist advice just for you. From setting up your venture to understanding seasonal demand and marketing to tourists, our sector-specific guidance helps you prepare for success. You can find all of this information and more on the business start up page on the Visit Lincolnshire website.

Visit website

How else can we help? Ask our growthbot

Your AI-powered assistant for finding tailored business support, funding opportunities, and answers to your questions across the site.

Factsheets

Back to basics – advice for start-ups

Want to know how to kickstart your new business? Check out our top tips!

PDF

Starting up in business

Starting a business or becoming self-employed, can be risky. But building a business from the ground up can be extremely rewarding.

PDF

Business Planning

A business plan is a written document that describes a business, its objectives, strategies, the market it lives in and financial forecasts.

PDF

Employing staff for the first time

Before you start looking for a new employee, you need to consider what the best solution is to meet your business needs.

PDF

Protecting your IP

It’s important to protect your business by securing your intellectual property rights.

PDF

Starting a business (common mistakes)

Starting a business is no easy task and shouldn’t be taken lightly. It can be an involved process but the rewards and benefits can be well worth it

PDF

Webinars and Podcasts

Understanding Grant Funding

Understand how grant funding works and how it can help your business to grow.

Video

Fit for Business Podcast Episode 1 – How do I choose a name for my business?

A conversation with Deborah Goodall about choosing a business name.

Podcast

Fit for Business Podcast Episode 2 – Which legal structure is best for my business?

A conversation with Deborah Goodall about choosing the correct legal structure for your business.

Podcast

Fit for Business Podcast Episode 3 – Making a business plan

Guy & Deborah discuss how to create a business plan in order to start or grow your business.

Podcast

Useful links

View page

Success Stories

View Page

Online tools and resources

Write a Business Plan

Some further resources from the Gov.uk website on writing a business plan.

Click to find out more