Start a business: support for young entrepreneurs

Do you have the qualities to be a young entrepreneur?

Guide

Before starting a business it's good to look at your personal qualities. Personal qualities such as persistence, energy, ambition, creativity and the ability to plan are important.

Entrepreneurial skills

As well as personal qualities you need a range of practical skills to run a business. This includes skills in:

  • business planning
  • finance and accounts
  • administrative tasks
  • marketing
  • product or service development 

You don't need to have all these skills before you start. Nor should you set out to be an expert in everything. However, you do need a basic understanding of the key business areas.

Business experience and mentoring support

You might feel a bit nervous about setting up a business if you have no previous experience of working. If so you can get mentoring help from organisations like The King's Trust. Their business mentors will work with you to help get your enterprise going, giving you both business and personal support(link is external). This will help you develop skills and self-confidence - see advice and support for young entrepreneurs.

For further research and support when starting a business, see the following guidance:

Watch a short video that looks at the reasons why starting a business might be right for you.

  • Start a business Helpline
    0800 027 0639