New business financial support?

[North1]

Hi all

I wanted to post a thread asking for advice if possible. Having used the forum frequently and sent many pm's offering advice, I hope I may be able to get some in return!

Essentially I am in full time employment but recently set-up my own marketing firm in my spare time. All my marketing work takes place on an evening and I am making some money at last! A long way before I will be in a position to quite the day job though!

Basically I am wanting to know is there any financial support from the local authorities, government, business enterprises etc

I have heard about grants that people get supplied but I am guessing things like this would be only be applicable to someone who is not already in full time employment at another company.

My small business has a registered domain, online presence and is run from home.

Any advice at all good/bad is all constructive for me!


Thanks in advance!

 

[oldeagleeye]

What would you need the investment for when you have no raw material costs and low operating costs.

If it is so as to be able to pay yourself wages - forget it.

So whats left - marketing. I think you have the answer to that one

Rob

 

[North1]

Good point Rob

Well at the minute as i am working from home each evening I have electric and telephone costs to consider - these costs are never going to go away of course!

I do want to make some investment in my own brand/identity as well as potential telemarketing resource.

I appreciate your response Rob. Are you aware of any government funding in place for an operation such as mine? Any idea of url's or help I can seek?

 

[oldeagleeye]

Some say business link. The reality is there ain't no funding for a business like yours. I man marektying companiesare litrerally 10 a penny.

Unless you have got a new angle then like specialising in 'green' that would appeal to the trustees of The Prices Trust it is reinvest - reinvest every penny you make.


Sorry thems the harsh realities.

 

[North1]

I really appreciate your feedback - many thanks

 

[RedEvo]

I've always found the grants system somewhat mysterious. However, generating employment seems to tick most boxes. Getting a grant to cover your 'expenses' while you get things moving working from home is a little optimistic in my opinion.

One other piece of advice, quit your job and get on with it as soon as possible.

d

 

[Kernowman]

I think you have more chance of pogo stick jumping on the moon than getting a grant these days - not that they were available anyway unless you could create a dozen jobs instantly

How's your busking skills?

 

[North1]

I am actually fairly competent on the guitar!

No voice like an angel though

 

[Billmccallum]

Reality...

Most grants are for new start-ups...very, very few are for existing businesses.

The largest grants are for businesses that create new jobs, so a one-man-band is way down the list.

There are specific regional and national grants, women in business, young people, local council grants, etc, but they have very specific eligibility criteria.

I'll drop you a PM with some info.

 

[filtuh.com]

Nothing to add except good luck!

 

[laguna]

No grants I'm afraid as business link will confirm!
I know your a marketing guy but why not put two heads together with someone at business link who is also an experienced marketeer?
You never know.... between you, you even may come away with renewed optimism and a few ideas for free!

Another idea is join the free workshops they do and network with startups who may require what you have to offer.
New businesses should be your target market anyway as established ones tend to stick with who and what they know and trust.

Good luck
Chris