Ask About Business

People the world over dream of setting up their own business and working for themselves but are often overwhelmed by the prospect.
Ask About Business has a range of resources to offer support and sign posting, whether you are setting out your stall or building your empire.

Why do you want to do it?

I'm fed up of being unemployed
I want to make some money
I want to be my own boss
I think I have a good idea...use my skills...prove I can do it!

How can libraries help? With information...

Start with COBRA (Complete Business Reference Adviser). It includes practical, factsheet style guides to starting up more than 350 different types of business, from Acupuncturist to Winter Sports Instructor! Plus factsheets, market reports, contacts, and sources of funding & support to help entrepreneurs.

COBRA is available at your local library. But the really good news is you can access this resource at home, if you're a member of any of the Ask About Business library services! You just need your library card to access it.
Your library will also have books about starting a business and you may find it helpful to read some success stories. See our suggestions on the Recommended Reading page below.

We can also supply information about:

• Franchising
• Customs & Excise
• E-Commerce
• Business plans
• Legal requirements
• Health and Safety
• Import & Export

Events

Some libraries hold regular events and workshops suitable for small businesses to help you build up local networks or just to meet others in the same position. Many local libraries even offer appointments with business advisers.

Click HERE for more information about starting up.

See also Grow A Business