The responsibilities of company directors

Along with the impressive-sounding title of 'company director' go some hefty responsibilities. You must carry these out by law, so it's vital to know what you should and should not do, otherwise you risk prosecution, even imprisonment. This feature outlines your responsibilities.

How much business could your business name be losing you?

The wrong business name can dilute your image or give the wrong impression. Conversely, the right one can contribute to sales performance. Here are the issues to consider.

How you can still net a million

Are you trying to launch an Internet start-up or put your business on the web? Here's how to set about it.

How to set up a limited company

In business, there are several benefits in trading as a limited company. And setting up a limited company is quicker, cheaper and easier than you might imagine. This feature outlines three ways to do it: the cheapest way, the quickest way and the safest way. This feature is related to UK businesses only.

How to avoid problems with partnerships

Many small businesses are partnerships. Yet circumstances and ambitions change, partners fall out or die. Without a good partnership agreement things can get acrimonious. Here's how to protect yourself from the start. The feature includes an overview of the five types of partnership available, what to look for when choosing your partner, the legal position if things go wrong, and ten things every partnership agreement should contain. This feature is related to UK businesses.

How to start a successful business

Starting your own business is a powerful dream for many people. Sadly, far too many new ventures fail because they get off to a bad start. Here are some vital tips to help you succeed.

Turning your hobby into a business

Many hobbies have grown into successful businesses. What's the secret? And what do you need to do? Some tips for craftworkers.

Setting up a successful craft co-operative

In rural Wales, craftspeople can have a hard time making a living. Some of them have joined forces to sell their work on their own terms - following a strong tradition of co-operatives. Learn the lessons so you can follow in their footsteps.

Is it time you went limited?

There are a number of compelling financial reasons to consider going limited. Understand the implications for your business. (Based on UK tax law.)

New Entrepreneurship Scholarships

Starting a business is never easy, with many obstacles to overcome along the way. There is help out there for budding entrepreneurs. One new pilot scheme that has been encouraging would-be entrepreneurs to 'have-a-go' is the New Entrepreneurship Scholarships.

The practical guide to successful downshifting

Are you fed up or is your job under threat? Do you dream of moving to the country? Is now the time to make a break? This time next year, will you have made the leap and be in control of your life? Here's how you can make it happen - successfully.

What's in a name? A brand, stupid!

Branding isn't just for the big boys. Every business, however small, needs to create a clear image of what it stands for. But how do you choose the right name and define your brand?

Learning to grow - the early years of your business

Starting your own business isn't as daunting as it might seem. To create a successful new business you need four things - a good plan, a good product that people actually want, good people who can make things happen, and a good supply of money. Follow our simple rules to starting up a successful business.