How business.gov.uk can help you grow, scale, and access tailored support

A new one-stop service to help small businesses grow, scale, and access tailored support

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the number of schemes, grants, and advice available to small businesses, you’re not alone. Finding reliable guidance can be time-consuming and confusing, especially when you’re already stretched running a business. 

That’s why the Department for Business and Trade launched the Business Growth Service this summer, hosted on business.gov.uk. The new platform is designed to be a space where business leaders can access the right support at the right time, whether you’re just getting started, looking to grow, or preparing to expand internationally. 

What you can do on business.gov.uk 

Business.gov.uk pulls together advice, funding opportunities, and compliance information, all in one platform. Crucially, it tailors guidance to your stage of business: 

• Start-up: if you’re still developing your idea, you’ll find step-by-step guides on how to register a business, build a support network, and access start-up finance. 

• New businesses: for new businesses, the platform offers practical resources on hiring, managing cashflow, digital adoption, and marketing. 

• Established businesses: if you’re ready to scale, you’ll see more advanced support, from managing exports to securing investment. 

Because the platform asks for basic information such as your sector, turnover and location, it can present advice that’s specific to your circumstances rather than a generic checklist. 

Why this matters for alumni 

As graduates of the Help to Grow: Management Course, you’re already ahead of the curve in thinking strategically about growth. Business.gov.uk is a practical next step, a tool you can use to quickly identify grants, connect with local support networks, and make sure you’re up to speed with legal and compliance requirements. 

For example, if you’re considering exporting for the first time, the platform can guide you through the paperwork and logistics while signposting you to trusted providers who can help. If you’re facing a digital adoption challenge, you’ll find resources on choosing the right technology and training your staff. 

A platform built with business in mind 

The service was developed with input from hundreds of business users, ensuring the information reflects real-world challenges. Early results show that businesses engaging with tailored content are far more likely to take up support, and those who do are more likely to achieve sustainable growth. 

What’s next 

This is only the first version of the digital service. It will continue to improve based on feedback from users like you, with new guides and services added regularly. 

In short, business.gov.uk is designed to save you time, connect you with the right opportunities, and make the journey of growing your business simpler.

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