FREE support to explore, plan and launch a business in West Yorkshire

Enterprise West Yorkshire offers free advice and business support to anyone considering self-employment as a career option. If you have a business idea, a recently launched business start-up or you’re exploring new ways of doing things - we can help.

Think it. Start it. Own it.

Whether you’re still deciding if setting up your own business is the right thing to do, unsure how to get your business idea off the ground, have a business plan and want to know how to put it into action or you have an innovative idea about doing things differently - we can help. Get local support and practical guidance to explore your options when it comes to setting up a business in West Yorkshire.

From workshops and seminars to one-to-one assistance, business mentoring and resources, we can help you access the right support, no matter where you are on your start-up journey.

Get free advice and guidance to help you plan and launch your own business.

Is starting a business the right career option for me?

Explore what it takes to start a business, learn how to find and engage customers and delve into business insurance and finance. 

Explore now

How do I launch my own business?

We can help you develop your business idea and guide you through the practicalities of setting up your own business. 

Find out more

Coming soon: support for innovative businesses

Intensive and targeted business support to help people with the potential to become successful innovative entrepreneurs. Sign up to our mailing list to get updates on business support offers, news and events.

Business support

See how we helped Bilaal take his digital marketing business from strength to strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I learn to start a business?

Starting a profitable business can be an exciting and rewarding journey, but it can also be challenging and overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin.

If you want to explore what it takes to start a business, we have created a range of free support and advice including on-demand videos, live workshops and resources to help you decide whether it’s for you. Sign up now

If you already have a business plan or idea and want to learn how to put it into action, you can access free interactive seminars, one-to-one support and networking opportunities with like-minded people to grow your ideas, launch a start up and take your business to the next level. Sign up now

How do I start a business with no money?

Starting a business without any capital can seem daunting, but it is possible. Think about the skills and knowledge you already have and how you can use these to provide products and services that don’t require a lot of investment.

There are lots of free resources out there, such as free website builders, social media platforms and online marketplaces to sell your products or services.

And finally, take advantage of free business courses and resources, such as the ones offered by Enterprise West Yorkshire. Not only can courses like this teach you the skills and knowledge to get started, they can also offer many networking opportunities signpost you to available funding.

How to get business advice?

Getting business advice is an important part of building and growing a successful business. Especially when you are just starting out. Finding a mentor with experience in your industry is a good way to get started. As is joining a business association or network to connect with like-minded people.

Enterprise West Yorkshire offers a range of advice to support you at every stage of your start up journey, from exploring whether it’s the right option for you to helping you put your business plan into action.

 

How can I improve my small business?

The first step to improving your small business is to clearly define your target audience and business goals. Knowing who your customers are and what they want can help you create a more effective marketing plan, develop better products and provide excellent customer service.

Developing a strong and engaged online presence and analysing your competition will help too. As will investing in marketing and keeping up with industry trends to ensure you stay ahead of the curve.

How do small businesses succeed?

Small businesses can benefit from implementing clear strategies and tactics and living by them. Things like understanding your target market and catering to their needs and preferences and building a strong and recognisable brand are good starting points.

Providing exceptional customer service can set your business apart from your competition and encourage customer retention and loyalty. It’s also important to stay up to date with technology and the latest trends in your industry as this will give you a competitive edge.

And finally, keeping a close eye on your finances and seeking professional advice when needed is essential.