Starting a business

Are you thinking of setting up a business?

What you need to do to set up depends on your type of business, where you work and whether you take people on to help.

You can also download a free business plan template and get advice on how to write your business plan.

Learn about starting a business


EH Sense service from Cherwell District Council

Whatever your Environmental Health requirement is, the EH Sense service can provide support tailored to meet your needs.

The service is suitable for pre-start, new and established food businesses.

 Find out more


Town Square Spaces StartUp Club

Get expert knowledge, insight and advice from experienced speakers who have taken their own businesses from startup to success.

View StartUp Club


Get the Enterprise Nation start-up kit for free!

This kit offers all the tools and tips you need to succeed. It’ll help you find an idea, spot a gap in the market and start your own small business.

Download kit


British Business Bank

Are you an early-stage company, less than two years old? Start-up solutions could offer free support, guidance and funding to get your idea off the ground.

View support


Amazon Small Business Accelerator

This is a free, online educational programme for anyone who wants to start a new online business or grow an existing one.

The online learning is completely free and tailored to your experience level.

Join the programme


Lloyds Bank

Following the 10-step plan for starting your own business will take your idea through the various stages through to start-up.

Explore the plan


Prince's Trust

Useful advice, guidance and resources from the Prince's Trust targeted at young entrepreneurs under the age of 30.

View guidance


Nat West Business Builder

Suitable to explore a business idea or those that are looking to grow; the free Business Builder online course, packed with practical resources, can identify next steps.

Use Business Builder