Small business start-up guide launched

Businesses groups have launched a guide to help entrepreneurs set up small companies.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and the Accredited Chamber Network have developed the Business Start-up Pack to address common challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

As well as advice, the pack includes business banking and telecommunications offers, free legal advice and half-price membership of the BCC.

John Dunsmure, managing director of the BCC, said that the encouragement of entrepreneurs must be matched by practical business support.

"I believe it is time for all the pro-enterprise talk to be matched by action," he said. "The BCC intends to use its knowledge, influence, contacts and network to make a major difference to the UK's start-up businesses."

Common problems faced by new firms include spending money on unnecessary items and buying the wrong equipment, Dunsmure said.

He said of his experiences meeting some small businesses: "There was no spare cash and when the going got tough so many had to fold. It is heart breaking to witness this especially when so many had such great potential."

For more advice, see More Th>n Business's financial guidance for start-ups.