Start a Business
If you want to explore an idea or have already started a business and would like some guidance then take advantage of the Student Business Clinic* at Enterprise SU which provides a confidential advisory service that could change your idea into reality.
UnLtd Millenium Awards – Are you a social entrepreneur?
UnLtd is a dynamic organization that helps individuals who have the ideas, the passion, the drive and the commitment to change society for the better. They offer a tailored package of support and financial assistance to these individuals, to help get their ideas off the ground and give then the best chance of success. Awards of up to £5,000 are available to help with the running costs of the project.www.unltd.org.uk
Advantage NI
Formally Shell Livewire NI, now Advantage NI, this organisation specialises in supporting young people in Northern Ireland to start or grow a business. Through their website they have plenty of advice and support on offer and the best thing is it’s all free of charge! To access all their free support and features please register on www.advantage-ni.com
Practical advice for businesses in Northern Ireland. In depth free information on business start up and development.
Start a Business Programme
The Start a Business Programme is FREE and available right across Northern Ireland. It provides a package of support to anyone interested in starting a business. If you are interested in starting a business you will be put in touch immediately with an accredited business advisor. They will be happy to meet with you on a one-to-one, confidential basis and tell you how we can help you to bring forward your idea. Visit www.sabp.co.uk for more information.
Enterprise Northern Ireland
Enterprise Northern Ireland encourages people from all backgrounds to take the first step and think positively about establishing a business venture. There are a number of support programmes available from exploring the idea of starting a business to actually starting your business.
For more information visit www.enterpriseni.com and find out about your local Enterprise NI partner.
Assessments
Every business starts with an idea, but how do you know if that idea is viable? Venture Navigator offers a series of assessments that offer personalised feedback on key aspects of a business. The assessments are based on acknowledged best practice and include the general viability of a business, fitness for a particular business sector (e.g. manufacturing) as well as guidance on important factors such as Intellectual property (IP) and investment readiness.
Resources
There is a massive amount of information for the business community. Once you’ve completed an assessment, Venture Navigator will recommend carefully chosen resources, including articles and media clips that provide guidance on topics specific to your business.
Answers: It’s often said "no man is an island" and this maxim is equally true in business. Venture Navigator supports an online community where business owners and entrepreneurs can exchange knowledge. Ask a question and let the experience of others provide the answer; or maybe you can help someone else to chart their path to success!