Call for business advice
Starting a Business
We're here to help you build a solid foundation
Starting a business is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you're turning a side hustle into a full-time venture, launching straight from employment, or exploring self-employment for the first time, having the right support makes all the difference.
We’ve helped thousands of people across Devon and the South West take the leap into self-employment. Depending on where you live or what sort of business you are thinking of starting, you may be able to get help from us for free, through one of our funded programmes, or at a subsidised rate.
Help could be on a one-to-one basis with an experienced business advisor, in a small group session or on one of our free business skills workshops.
Our local, friendly advisors provide practical, no-nonsense guidance to help you move from idea to action with clarity and confidence.
By talking to an advisor, you can:
- Test and refine your business idea
- Understand your market and competition
- Identify risks and opportunities
- Clarify your next steps
- Avoid common and costly start-up mistakes.
Need some help with starting your business?
Enter your details below and one of our friendly team will be in touch.
Who this support is for
We've been supporting start-ups and small business owners for over 30 years, primarily through programmes funded by local authorities or the UK Government. We've helped businesses of every size and type, including:
- Pre-start individuals with a business idea
- Early-stage start-ups (0–3 years trading)
- Side hustlers looking to go full-time
- Freelancers and sole traders
- Social enterprises and community businesses
- Growth-focused entrepreneurs.
From time to time, our funded programmes will also focus on particular geographical areas, sectors or demographics.
What we can help you with
Business planning
- Structuring your business
- Writing or refining your business plan
- Cashflow forecasting and budgeting
- Pricing strategy
You may also find our free downloadable Business Plan Guide helpful.
Finance, grants & loans
- Understanding start-up costs
- Applying for grants and funding
- Preparing loan applications
- Exploring alternative finance options
Take a look at our guide on the various funding options you could explore.
Marketing & sales
- Identifying your target customer
- Developing a marketing strategy
- Social media basics
- Building your brand
- Creating a sales pipeline.
Our free, comprehensive Marketing Plan Guide cuts through the complexity. Download it here.
Legal & compliance
- Registering your business
- Understanding tax and self-assessment
- Insurance requirements
- Employment responsibilities
- Sector-specific regulations
We’ll help you understand what applies to your business, without overwhelming jargon.
Our current programmes
Explore what funded support might be available to you. You'll find all of our latest business support programmes here.
LEARN MORE
