Finding reliable support is crucial when you're running a business. We've compiled and categorized this list of high-quality, free resources to help you with everything from securing funding to understanding legal requirements and finding the right tools to grow.
Government Bodies
Funding & Grants
Marketing & Sales
Legal & Compliance
Free Business Software
Training & Networking
Government & Official Bodies
Direct links to the essential government departments and agencies that oversee UK business operations and compliance.
The definitive source for government information on starting, running, and growing a business.
His Majesty's Revenue and Customs, responsible for tax collection, payments and compliance.
The UK's registrar of companies, where limited companies are incorporated and file accounts.
The official body for patents, trademarks, designs, and copyright protection.
The UK's independent authority for data protection and information rights (GDPR).
The national regulator for workplace health and safety in Great Britain.
Funding and Grants
Access finance to start and grow your venture. Explore UK government schemes and other funding opportunities.
Government-backed personal loans up to £25,000 for new businesses.
A government-owned bank dedicated to increasing the supply of credit to SMEs.
Competitions and grants for innovative research and development projects.
The official government search service for all types of public sector grants.
A leading platform for tracking and identifying high-growth companies and investors.
Marketing & Sales
Effectively promote your business and reach your target audience with these essential free tools.
Track website traffic, user behaviour, and campaign performance.
Research keywords for your SEO and content marketing strategy.
Create professional graphics and marketing materials with a generous free plan.
Manage email marketing campaigns and build mailing lists (free plan available).
Manage your Facebook and Instagram business pages, advertising, and analytics.
Legal & Compliance
Understand your obligations and ensure your business complies with UK regulations.
Free, impartial advice on workplace rights, rules, and best practice for employers.
Access affordable legal advice and document templates for small businesses.
Create legally compliant Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements for residential properties.
Free Business Software
Streamline your workflow and manage your business effectively with these powerful free tools.
Free accounting, invoicing, and receipt scanning for small businesses and freelancers.
Simple time tracking to log hours for projects and clients (free plan available).
Flexible Kanban-style project management using boards, lists, and cards.
Popular real-time communication platform for teams and clients (free plan available).
Video conferencing and online meeting software with a comprehensive free tier.
Training & Networking
Enhance your business acumen, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and build valuable relationships.
Offers networking, legal support, and a powerful voice in government for its members.
Free training, mentoring, and funding for young UK entrepreneurs (18-30).
Access hundreds of free online business courses from leading UK and global institutions.
A structured referral marketing programme with local chapters across the UK.
Find local networking events and groups for entrepreneurs and specific industries.