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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

Why "start-up stigma" is holding back entrepreneurs

5 March 2024

Societal pressures to conform and lack of support from friends and family are key barriers for people that want to start their own business, according to new research.

A survey of 2,000 people across the UK, conducted by Venture Planner, has revealed some of the key factors that stop aspiring entrepreneurs from following their dreams to start a business. The findings suggest that there is a "start-up stigma" that can discourage those that want to become their own boss.

The pressure to pursue a job that is seen as more stable or traditional is holding back nearly four out of ten (38%) respondents, whilst one in five (20%) fear society's judgement and disapproval, including on social media. The survey also finds that 34% of respondents say their family and friends view starting a business as risky and reckless or something that should only be pursued if they have no other options.

A lack of preparation from mainstream education is also a key barrier. The survey finds that 41% of aspiring entrepreneurs feel that their education has not prepared them for tasks like business planning and financial management, with only 30% feeling somewhat prepared. The educational gap is profound, with 91% concerned about their ability to draft a business plan.

"Sadly, there is almost always a stigma around starting a business in Britain today. It is looked down upon as a Plan B and many don't see it as a sustainable source of income. That's in part because their formal education hasn't set them up properly to prepare for these tasks. Many wouldn't know how to do all the necessary groundwork - and that's likely because it is something that isn't taught." Alex Clansey, co-founder and ceo of Venture Planner.

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What makes a successful entrepreneur?

A new poll conducted by American Express has found that the top personality traits that entrepreneurs say account for their success are the fact that they are "motivated", "productive" and "risk-taking". Other key characteristics include being "resilient" and "brave".

The research also investigated entrepreneurs' motivations for starting a business. The most popular responses were:

  • Being your own boss (58%);
  • Improving work-life balance (46%);
  • Having a business idea to exploit (33%);
  • Making money (29%).

Overall, the study found that the majority (78%) of entrepreneurs saw starting their own business as a means of unlocking opportunities that otherwise wouldn't have been open to them. It also revealed a deep sense of pride within this community, with almost all (94%) respondents believing that the contribution entrepreneurs make to the UK economy is important.

Written by Rachel Miller.