How to start a business - the basics

Last Updated: 29 Nov 2021

Contents

  1. What does this involve?
  2. Am I eligible?
  3. What does this cost?
  4. Who is this for?
  5. How long does this take?
  6. Important information
  7. Next steps

Support provided by Business Gateway

What does this involve?

This free online guide sets out 7 steps to starting up – covering essentials like finance, tax and legal issues, and business planning. There is also some useful advice on that all-important aspect: how to find and keep customers.

Am I eligible?

Yes, if you are thinking about starting, or already run, a business in Scotland.

What does this cost?

This is a free and impartial service.

Who is this for?

Any start-up business based in Scotland. 

How long does this take?

It takes 3 minutes to learn about the basics of starting a business.

Important information

Be sure to follow the links in the guide to find more detailed information on starting up. Business Gateway offers heaps of online resources for your business stage, including a guide to avoiding the common mistakes made by start-ups.

Next steps

Visit the Business Gateway website for more advice on how to start a business.

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Support provided by Business Gateway

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