Starting a business or becoming self-employed for the first time can be an overwhelming, daunting and a risky process, however creating a new enterprise is very rewarding. 

All businesses need support and advice to ensure that their venture has the greatest chance of success and that any risk, identified or not, is mitigated. 

Here you will find a range of guidance and support services to help turn your business idea into reality. 

Use this checklist to help you get started: 

• Have you got a business plan prepared? Here’s a free template to get you started including cashflow forecast
• Do you need financial support to get your business off the ground? There are several programmes and support for start-ups including The Government’s Start Up Loan Fund.
• Have you investigated what would be the most suitable legal format for you and your business? Your accountant can help you with this.
• Register as self-employed with HM Revenue and Customs.
• Require a licence for entertainment, alcohol or private hire? What about a permit for your business?
• Require premises? There’s a list of available properties at https://ambervalley.pps.tractivity.co.uk. Or if you want to start by having a Market Stall on one of the markets, contact Vicki England, Market and Town Centre Officer, 01773 520363 or email MarketTowns@ambervalley.gov.uk.
• Do you need to apply for planning permission or want advice on advertising, signage, change of use or a property extension?
• Want to know more about business and commercial waste?
• Know what business rates you have to pay and whether you qualify for business rates and relief schemes?
• Need to make sure your premises and food businesses are up to scratch? Register your food business, find out about pest control or learn about the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme.

There are other avenues worth exploring. The East Midlands Chamber offers extensive networking opportunities, events and training to get you off the ground. 

Support programmes

Vision Derbyshire Business Start-up Support

A scheme for start-ups can offer advice, support and funding to get your idea off the ground!

The Vision Derbyshire Business Start-Up Scheme is open to people who are thinking about starting a business or who have started a business in the last 12 months, registered in Derby or Derbyshire. A team of expert business advisers are in place to offer free and impartial one to one advice and support tailored to your needs, which includes:

• Mentoring
• Business Planning
• Financial Planning
• Marketing

It's funded through the East Midlands County Combined Authority's Shared Prosperity Fund.

Express your interest for business start-up support 

Or you can email business@derbyshire.gov.uk with the following details:

• a brief description of your business venture or idea
• your current status - idea stage, first 3-months of trading, 3 to 12-months trading
• your contact details - name, address of your business, email, preferred telephone number

If you are not sure where to start or you would like to speak to someone contact us for free help and guidance on getting you started.