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For many of the 2.1 million would-be entrepreneurs across the UK, the aftermath of the recession could be the best time to start up in business. If you are one of them, or have recently started your own business, you may have some difficulty getting straight answers to the very basic questions that matter most to you. Or perhaps you may not feel comfortable asking - many entrepreneurs don't.

ACCA and the UK Government's Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) have teamed up with Enterprise Champion and Apprentice star Lord Alan Sugar to bring you some quick, practical video guides to starting up and staying in business.

If you like what you have heard and want to find out more, speak to a professional accountant - a quick chat to scope out what services they offer and whether they can help you make the most out of your business should not cost a penny.

You can find details of ACCA members in your area in our Business Adviser Directory or look up accountants specialising in start-up finance on our SME Funding Adviser database:

• Starting a home-based business?
• Should I prepare a business plan?
• What about franchising a business idea?
• How do I know if my idea will work?
• What should I think about before starting in business for myself?
• What personal traits do you need in order to be a successful business person?
• How do you deal with the challenges of running a small business?
• What is the best bit of advice you can offer a new business?
• How to get paid on time?
• Dealing with a new customer?
• Chasing payment?
• Looking for funding?
• Been turned down for funding?
• Need finance for a new proposition?
• When is the right time to start a new business or diversify?
• When should I move to new premises?
• Should I grow my business by acquisition, further funding or organically?
• Advice to growing businesses
• Getting help with employment law
• Taking on your first employee
• I have a successful retail outlet, should I open a second?
• As an independent retailer, how can I compete with larger businesses?

You can see the rest of the videos and browse additional BIS resources on the Department's channel on Youtube.

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