Company start ups

Starting a company is a complex and time-consuming business, so getting the right help and advice is essential. The process will normally involve market research, deciding on strategy, company formation, drafting shareholder's agreements, appointing directors and making other senior appointments

Other factors to take into consideration are intellectual property management, employment law, insurance, accounting, finding premises and facilities and tax and input will be required from lawyers, accountants, business consultants, surveyors and marketing/PR consultants.

In the SEEDA region, there is a network of 'Enterprise Hubs' whose primary aim is to support the creation and growth of technology/knowledge-based companies. There is likely to be a Hub nearby, so have a look at the SEEDA web site for more information www.seeda.co.uk

Isis Innovation is is a technology transfer company owned by the University of Oxford and assists members of the university by providing company formation, licensing, patents advice and business consultancy services, as well as providing introductions to sources of funding. www.isis-innovation.com

Companies House, the UK registrar of companies, publishes a guide on setting up companies. www.companies-house.gov.uk

Business Link has offices all over the UK and can provide advice and support across a whole range of business issues. www.businesslink.gov.uk

DiagnOx is a technology transfer company which provides business advice, access to capital and premises and partnering opportunities to start-up and established businesses in the diagnostics sector. www.diagnox.co.uk