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Business Support
From support for those looking to find out about business networks and how to start a business, through to those looking to expand or resolve specific issues, there is a whole host of support available - much of it free or heavily subsidised.
To help you find what you need as quickly as possible, we have identified business networks separately and grouped organisations according to their target sectors and the type of support or advice they can offer.
A list of informal networking groups can be downloaded below:
Networking Groups [PDF, 25k]
Enterprise First
Enterprise First is a not-for-profit company, sponsored by the public and private sectors, to offer free or subsidised support for those looking to start a new business or develop an existing small business.
Business Link
Business Link is the Government’s flagship service and primary route to business support and advice. Funded by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), the Hampshire and Isle of Wight service operates from offices based in Fareham.
UK Trade & Investment
UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) is the international trade arm of the nine Regional Development Agencies. It supports companies that want to trade and invest overseas.
Revenue & Customs
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) provides a comprehensive online service for individuals, employees, employers and businesses. They also have Advice Teams who can advise on tax responsibilities and who run workshops and presentations across the country.
Trading Standards
Trading Standards support businesses and the public, with the aim of ensuring that the highest standards of quantity, quality, price, description and safety are maintained. They provide free guidance to businesses in Hampshire on how to comply with trading standards.
Universities
Purple Door provides a single point of contact for businesses looking to take advantage of the advice, resources, graduate recruits and research facilities available through the University of Portsmouth.
