1. We are completely bias but without hesitation on this account. You usually get a free consultation with an accountant – a try before you buy deal. This gives you a fantastic resource to talk with an expert about what you need to get your business started and what they know from their years of experience about businesses like yours. Grab a cup of tea/coffee and talk to an accountant about what they could do for you and what they would advise you to do for yourself. Yes you can come to us for a free consultation and a chat if you like: abc-accounting-services.co.uk
2. One of my favourite resources is The Start Up Donut because it is such an accessible and content rich site that covers every element of starting a business in depth: http://www.startupdonut.co.uk
3. Do not let the Sage sponsorship put you off there is some very useful tools on Startups with some industry specific content to boot. Take a look at: http://startups.co.uk
4. For a blog rich site take a look at smallbusiness.co.uk. They have in-depth articles about all sort of subjects from ‘how to run a business around your family’ to ‘making a connection’ which is a guide on communication technology: http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk
5. NBV Enterprise Solutions offers free start-up seminars and there is tons of useful information on their site to get you going. Just go to: http://www.nbv.co.uk/?gclid=CjwKEAjw68ufBRDt0Zmrn4W_8AwSJADcjp1cxntSras9p19SnaoGw__xvBkgMaBxmypMK252JqgcGxoCup_w_wcB#/i-am-starting-a-business/4574476849
6. No list of start-up resources would be complete without Gov.uk. A comprehensive and trusted resource on all business matters: https://www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business/start-with-an-idea
7. Unfortunately, no list would be complete without HM Revenue and Custom’s (HMRC) site either. However, handle this one with care. HMRC have a habit of confusing simple subjects and presenting their information in the driest, yawn inducing format known to man/woman! Enter at your own risk but do consult for deadlines and for trusted lists of employers/employees responsibilities:  http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/
8. For inspiration alone visit the BBC’s page on start-up stories. This will also help you recover from HMRC’s sombre tone: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11629784
9. Start Up Britain is a great site created this year with fresh and in some cases live content being added as the Start Up Tour navigates the country: http://www.startupbritain.co/inspiration
10. To finish off this modest list of resources let’s throw in a bit of Richard Branson. When it comes to business there is always room for Branson and his engaging insights. This piece is called ‘ 8 tips to evolve a start-up into a successful business’: http://www.virgin.com/richard-branson/8-tips-to-evolve-a-start-up-into-a-successful-company

One of Richard Branson’s favourite bits of advice is:

“Screw it, let’s do it!”

So, shall we?

If that isn’t enough to satisfy your hunger for information then we also have our own book out, written by our marketing manager with sections of insight from ABC Accounting Service’s director Belinda Darley.

This book has the perfect blend of tried and tested formula with a straight talking delivery so you will have a great grasp of the basics and own a resource that you can keep dipping into. To purchase a copy go to: Starting Up Your Own Business: An Accountant’s Perspective 

You can also visit our downloads page for more free resources: www.abc-accounting-services.co.uk/downloads.php

Or arrange a free consultation at our offices in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire: info@abc-accounting-services.co.uk