Start up business ideas

For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Our guide to product development, including customer research, market positioning, the product life cycle and how to keep your product range fresh.

There are more than 5.6 million business in the UK. Find how to guides for more than 180 different types of business if you are thinking of joining the small business ranks.

To avoid starting a new business that's doomed to fail, you must test your business idea rigorously. Discover how to test your business ideas.

This article discusses the challenges and rewards of starting a business and being your own boss. Owning a business can be financially rewarding, but it requires hard work and sacrifice. Is this for you?

Founders are interesting people with a story to tell. Here they share their tips for success and help you avoid the mistakes that they made.

Bristol-based Kabuto Foods aims to take instant noodles to a whole new level. But what what inspired Crispin Busk to launch the business?

Launched in early 2010, following 18 months of R&D, SnoozeShade™ is a blackout blind for pushchairs designed to help babies sleep during the day.

Wondering if you can start a business? Sarah Giblin, founder of RiutBags, answers common start up questions from would-be entrepreneurs.

Matt Horan of Rollasole got the idea for his roll-up pumps for clubbers after a night out. Since his 'Eureka!' moment he's taken his business online.

Most owners learn from practical experience, so what's the value of a degree if you want to set up your own business? Three business owners discuss.

Franchising allows you to set up a business following a proven formula - although you'll be subject to restrictions. Our guide to franchising.

Buying a business can be less risky than starting one. If the business has customers, then it has income. But it will need upfront investment.

Adam Butwilowski spotted a gap in the market for a website for web, ecommerce and social media jobs. So how did he turn his idea into a business?

Business inspiration can come from anywhere. Adam Ewart of Send My Bag explains how an unpleasant journey sparked his business idea.

Based in north-east Scotland, Polished Bliss is a small specialist car care business run by four passionate individuals. Here's their story.

At first glance, Bookdonors, a Selkirk-based social enterprise, appears simply to sell books to raise money for good cause. But there's more to it.

Long neglected farm buildings in rural Worcestershire were renovated to provide a home for The Fold Bransford Community Interest Company.