Support and advice for businesses

You can find more support for businesses online on the links below:

• BIG South London: Combined expertise for 5 South London Boroughs offering a range of free support programmes and industry networks as well as funding opportunities and flexible co-working spaces.

• Small Business Commissioner (SBC): an independent public body set up by Government under the Enterprise Act 2016 to support small businesses and tackle late payment and unfavourable payment practices in the private sector.

• GOV.uk: Tools and guidance for businesses and self employed

• Start Up Loans: A government-backed personal loan available to individuals looking to start or grow a business in the UK.

• GOV.UK – setting up a social enterprise

• Federation of Small Businesses (FSB): a member organisation focussed on helping smaller businesses achieve their ambitions, providing advice, support and representation. 

• Grow London Local: Offering a range of support schemes and practical resources to help you start, sustain and grow your business.

• The British Library Business & IP Centre: Access the library’s databases, get online one-to-ones on intellectual property and business information, attend a wide range of webinars or join the Get Ready for Business Growth programme.

• Enterprise Nation: Entrepreneurs and small businesses can access resources, expertise, events and join their online community.

• Enterprise Nation The Next Generation hub: Designed to help young people start or grow a business. Sign up today for free e-learning videos, events, inspiring blogs, and support from peers and business experts.

• Take Five Anti-Fraud Campaign is a national campaign offering advice to help prevent email, phone-based and online fraud. 

• The Good Business Charter is an accreditation scheme, which organisations in the UK can sign up to in recognition of responsible business behaviour.

• MET Police, Cyber Protection Team: set up to help protect small to medium-size businesses and charities from the ever-growing threat of cyber crime

• Digital Boost:  Free 1:1 expert mentoring in strategy, marketing, technology, finance and more

Local Business Support and Representative Organisations

• Kingston Chamber of Commerce
• Kingston First Business Improvement District

Free online employability skills and career advice

• Skills Toolkit 
• Open Learn
• Future Learn
• Google Digital Garage 
• Prince’s Trust (for young people 11-30 year olds)