Set up your own business
Ready to be your own boss?
Changing the way we live and work during lockdown and Covid-19 has made many of us reflect on what we want from life and has created new opportunities to start a business. Whether you're looking at starting a new business here or relocating a current business, Plymouth will help you flourish. We are already home to many entrepreneurs including Chris Dawson who started in Plymouth as a market trader and now owns The Range chain which is the fastest growing retailer in the UK.
If you think you have a great idea for a business and the skills and financial backing to support it but need some help with sorting out the backroom stuff like tax returns, business loans, insurance etc there is advice at hand.
If you need guidance to turn your business idea into a reality, Skills Launchpad Plymouth can point you in the right direction. Start with a business plan, work out your start-up costs and how you will finance a business.
Think carefully about your customers and how will you promote your business.
This may feel overwhelming – but there is lots of support and help out there to help make your dreams a reality, with many purpose designed start up spaces to work from in Plymouth.
Find out more here:
Speak to a careers advisor
Call the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900 for help to identify skills that could be useful in a range of different roles.
Useful websites
Plymouth’s Business Parks, Science Park and office space
This includes the City Business Park and the Business Centre. The Formation Zone at the University of Plymouth and the Plymouth Science Park provides workspace and laboratories for the creative and STEM sectors (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), supporting new and growing knowledge-based companies.
Plymouth Social Enterprise Network
Plymouth is a hot-spot for social enterprise activity in the UK and is developing as a global ‘social enterprise city’. If you are thinking about starting a Social Enterprise in Plymouth make contact for funding advice and business planning support.
Devon and Plymouth Chamber of Commerce
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
Support if you’re self-employed or run a business for those aged 18-30
Government advice – Working for yourself
Useful links to support you if you want to work for yourself with Skills Launchpad Plymouth
Explore a business idea with Prince’s Trust
The Enterprise Programme (for 18 – 30 year olds) runs monthly across Devon and Cornwall
For young people who want to explore a business idea. We offer training, mentoring, funding and resources to turn their idea into a viable business (including a £200 test marketing grant).
To find out more call or text Kelly or Ivanna on: Kelly 07484082161 or Ivanna 07931 555 085
Email kelly.crane@princes-trust.org.uk or Ivanna.bedani@princes-trust.org.uk