Let’s back small business – and how you can boss your startup or existing business

Restrictions come and (we all hope) go, but the passion and commitment of small businesses remains undimmed.

With lockdown restrictions still imposed in different ways across the UK, we’re getting the nation behind their small independent businesses who are bossing it – either online due to requirements to remain closed or on the high street (and online) as restrictions have been lifted.

Everyone’s getting involved up and down the country, from social content creators and Sage Business Experts to small business owners.

Check #YourLocal for loads more great examples, and add your own. Our pounds in tills, and posts on timelines show them we care, and we continue to back them bossing it.

Want to set up and boss your own business?

As well as backing existing small businesses, we’re here to do the same with those people who want to start their own companies.

Perhaps you’ve got a burning desire to run your own business and now’s the ideal time. Maybe you’re craving a better work-life balance.

Or perhaps, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, you’ve been made redundant and are looking for an alternative way to make money and support yourself (and your family).

For those thinking about bossing it and setting up their own business, below are a few articles to help you.

How to start a small business in 2020

When it comes to starting a small business, having an idea to turn into a product or service that you can offer customers and clients is one part of the puzzle.

You also need to take the time to sort any legal requirements (should you be a sole trader, limited company or partnership?) and keep on top of your numbers (good cloud accounting software can help you manage your accounts).

This article covers what you need to know in these regards – and more.

And look out for our small business toolkit (which features a ‘start your business’ guide, cash flow forecast and business plan template), which is featured in the article.

With these resources by your side, you’ll have what you need to take your first steps in a brave new world.

Find out more: How to start a small business in 2020

How to write a business plan

A business plan will help you work out your priorities for your business. It will also help if you decide you need to find investment for your business.

In this article, you’ll find details on what you need to include in your business plan, such as:

• Who your customers and/or clients are
• What your product or services will offer to your customer/client base
• Details on your finances.

There’s also advice on how to use your business plan and where to get help with it if you need any.

Find out more: How to write a business plan

Already running your business and want to up your game?

Here are some steps you can take to help you find support as your business grows, stay on top of your taxes and get financial help as and when you need it.

How to choose an accountant for your small business

Accountants are great when it comes to seeking support to file tax returns – but they can offer your business so much more.

In this article, we cover the benefits of using an accountant and share a series of steps you can take to find the right accountant (or accountancy practice) to help your business thrive.

And as an extension to this, in another article, we share the stories of a number of business owners who reveal how an accountant has made a huge difference to their companies.

Find out more: How to choose an accountant for your small business

10 simple tips to get the support that helps your business thrive

That’s right, you don’t need to go it alone when it comes to business.

From the aforementioned accountant, to bookkeepers, business coaches and payroll experts, there are lots of people that can help you achieve your goals.

And when it comes to support with your small business software – including the likes of accounting software, payroll software and HR software – your vendor should be able to help you use it to the max.

Find out more: 10 simple tips to get the support that helps your business thrive

7 tips to help you make sure tax isn’t taxing for your business

As the government said a few years ago, “tax doesn’t have to be taxing” – but that’s not necessarily the case.

Tax can be pretty complicated, especially if it’s not your strong suit.

To help you gain some clarity, this article covers a series of tips to help you stay on top your taxes.

And for additional help in this area, it’s worth reaching out to an accountant or tax adviser for their support.

Find out more: 7 tips to help you make sure tax isn’t taxing for your business

Coronavirus financial support timeline: How you can apply and when the schemes end

While there are a series of government grants and loans that you can access if you need to, the coronavirus pandemic has opened the doors to a wealth of financial support.

There are numerous schemes available to help you if your business has been affected by the pandemic, from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to the various loan schemes.

In this article, we highlight what’s available to you and when the schemes end – so you have enough time to get your applications in (or work with an accountant to help you navigate what’s best for you to use).

Find out more: Coronavirus financial support timeline: How you can apply and when the schemes end

Final thoughts on backing small business

We may be going through uncertain times but these are times to celebrate small businesses – both the people who are involved and what they offer the economy.

It’s been a challenging year – so if that’s meant you’ve decided running your own business is the way to go, the resources above should provide you with the first steps you need to take to embark on your new adventure.

And if you’ve been running your business for a while and are working hard to achieve your goals, the resources above should help you take the steps to win big.