In recent years, Manchester has emerged as a contender to London as the UK’s capital of business. Small business owners in particular can benefit from lower costs in the North, while still being surrounded by creative agencies, investment opportunities, and a talented pool of potential employees.
If you’ve recently started a business in Manchester, you may be on the lookout for a bit of support. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of options. We’ve rounded up four places you can turn to for small business support in the thriving city of Manchester.
Manchester Chamber of Commerce
Chambers of Commerce exist all over the UK, and are a great starting point for small businesses. If you’re based in Greater Manchester, you’ll have access to the UK’s biggest Chamber of Commerce.
The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce was set up to support businesses of all sizes. It has over 4,000 members, which provides businesses with excellent networking opportunities. This is one of the biggest benefits of joining the Chamber of Commerce, but it’s certainly not the only one.
Other benefits include support with various business areas, including HR and marketing, along with the opportunity to attend workshops and training sessions.
Creative Agencies
One of the reasons why Manchester has become a business hub in recent years is thanks to the abundance of creative businesses that have descended on the city. If you’re looking to work with a creative agency, Manchester is home to some of the best in the country.
The benefits of working with an agency as a small business are vast. It allows you to scale without going through the hiring process, receive guidance from an experienced team and also learn from specialists.
Perhaps the biggest benefit is gaining access to a specialised team. Not all agencies offer the same services, so whether you’re looking for a Manchester branding agency like BGN, or you’re in need of an SEO agency in Manchester, like Red Cow Media, you’re sure to find a solution in Manchester.
Business Investment Fund
One of the biggest issues that new or small businesses face is access to capital.
Thankfully, Manchester is home to many high-net-worth individuals looking for their next business investment opportunity, which is the first place you can turn to. Check out organisations such as Manchester Angels if you are on the lookout for a business angel.
For smaller businesses, the Business Investment Fund, which offers loans up to £5m to Manchester-based businesses, may be a better option. Businesses will need to provide a business plan and an overview of the business when applying for the fund, which can then be used to fund jobs. This benefits the business receiving the loan and also the Manchester economy.
Manchester Universites
Manchester is home to several high-profile universities, including the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford; all of which are home to some of the brightest young minds in the country. As a small business, this provides you with access to a talented pool of individuals who are all hungry to develop their skills.
Depending on your business’s needs, you could take advantage in the form of student internships or by attracting talented graduates through full-time jobs. Either way, students and graduates are likely to bring new, in-demand skills that are capable of taking your small business to the next level.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to start a business in the UK, Manchester is a great option, and you’ll receive plenty of support from the different organisations mentioned above. Whether you need support with talent, services or capital, Manchester has you covered.