Search results
Can I patent my idea or invention?
You may be able to get a patent if your idea or invention meets the criteria for a patent - to qualify it must be new, inventive and industrially applicable
Advantages and disadvantages of getting a patent
Consider the benefits of patents, as well as possible difficulties patenting may cause, before taking your ideas public
Rules on advertising credit
The rules governing advertisement for credit or hire facilities including providing clear, easily understood information and a representative example.
Innovation and R&D
Guidance on intellectual property, innovation and research and development, and financing business R&D in Northern Ireland
Structuring a board of directors
How to best structure a board of directors with responsibility for key areas of the business
Eureka Network
Information on the world's biggest public network for international cooperation in research, development and innovation
Core skills all businesses require
Core skills your business needs to function successfully in areas including leadership, finance, and personnel.
Foundation degrees - benefits for your business
Foundation degrees can help to improve your employees' skills and their contribution to your business.
Find out more about Foundation degrees
If you think that Foundation degrees are for you or for your employees, then there are a number of options available to find out more.
Consumer credit rules for businesses that hire out or lease goods
An introduction to how consumer credit rules affect businesses that hire or lease goods including providing a written hire agreement stating the consumer’s rights.
Skills and training for directors and owners
The key skills needed by business owners and directors and how these skills can be developed.
Does my business need a consumer credit licence?
If you sell on credit, lend money, issue credit cards, collect debts or give debt advice, you may need a consumer credit licence to operate.
How to apply for a consumer credit licence
You can apply for consumer credit licensing from the Financial Conduct Authority who will assess your fitness on factors such as competence and past offences.
Demonstrate good environmental compliance
Show your environmental credentials to become a more attractive business to contractors in Northern Ireland when preparing your business for tender
Find contracts and tender successfully
Put your business in the best position to find and win tender competitions in Northern Ireland, Great Britain, Republic of Ireland and the EU
Skills required by growing businesses
How the complexity and variety of skills your business needs to access increase as your business grows.
Building a management team
Key considerations when building an effective management team for your business.
Funding for design projects
Find funding support for your design project to help improve processes, products or services
Food and drink - find a case study
Case studies highlighting success stories of businesses in the food and drink industry
Use innovation in your business
Guidance on using innovation in manufacturing and business operations, and the benefits of using artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0 technologies and open data in business