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How to Start a Business in Dorset

Free start-up resources and useful local contacts.

Improve your chances of success!

How to Start a Business in Dorset

Starting a business in Dorset

If you are thinking about starting a business in Dorset or would like to grow your existing business, we would love to help you.

Start Your Own Business in Dorset contains resources and the information that will help give your venture the best chance of success. It also highlights organisations who offer friendly advice and the services that you are likely to need as a new startup or local business owner.

Grants | Networking groups | Business advice | Mentoring | Co-working spaces

Starting a business in Dorset

Local help for startups

There is plenty of help for startups in Dorset but where can it be found?

Select classification:

Business advice in a group

Advice & Support
An accountant with calculator

Accountancy
A bookkeeper at work

Bookkeeping
Coworkers desks

Co-Working
Bank of England

Funding
Photo of a piggy bank

Grants
A mentor with group

Mentoring
Networking group talking

Networking
A view of a smart office

Office Services
Online marketing graphic

Online Marketing
A web designer at desk

Web Design
A nice place to work

Workplaces

If you're considering starting a business or already running one in Dorset, this web page is designed to provide you with valuable information and resources to support your entrepreneurial journey. Located in the beautiful South West region of England, Dorset offers a diverse economy, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant business community.

Demographics of Dorset

Dorset is home to a thriving population and presents numerous business opportunities. As of the latest available data, the estimated population of Dorset is over 770,000 residents. The county encompasses a mix of urban and rural areas, providing a rich and varied market for businesses to thrive.

Major Towns and Cities in Dorset
  • Bournemouth: Bournemouth is a popular coastal town in Dorset with a population of over 195,000 residents. It is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and thriving tourism industry. Bournemouth offers a range of business opportunities, particularly in the hospitality, leisure, and digital sectors.
  • Poole: Poole is another coastal town in Dorset, located adjacent to Bournemouth. It has a population of over 150,000 residents and is known for its bustling harbor, stunning natural scenery, and strong maritime heritage. Poole offers opportunities in industries such as marine, manufacturing, creative arts, and professional services.
  • Dorchester: Dorchester is the county town of Dorset, with a population of over 20,000 residents. It is a historic market town with a rich cultural heritage and serves as an administrative center. Dorchester offers a supportive environment for small businesses and opportunities in sectors such as retail, tourism, and professional services.
  • Weymouth: Weymouth is a coastal town in Dorset, known for its sandy beaches and picturesque harbor. With a population of over 55,000 residents, it attracts tourists and visitors throughout the year. Weymouth offers opportunities in tourism, hospitality, marine leisure, and events management sectors.
Local Authorities in Dorset

Understanding the local authorities in Dorset is essential for navigating regulatory requirements and accessing relevant services. Here are some key local authorities in Dorset along with their website links:

  • Dorset Council: The official website of the Dorset Council provides information on local government services, business rates, planning permissions, and economic development initiatives. They also offer guidance on setting up a business and provide access to grants and funding opportunities.
  • Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council: The website of the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council offers resources for businesses in the area, including information on licensing, permits, business support programs, and networking opportunities. They provide comprehensive guidance on starting a business and offer support for business growth and innovation.
Business Support Organisations in Dorset

Dorset offers a range of business support organisations dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and businesses thrive. Whether you need assistance with funding, mentoring, networking, or general guidance, these organisations can provide valuable resources. Here are a few noteworthy business support organisations in Dorset, along with their website links:

  • Dorset Growth Hub: The Dorset Growth Hub offers a range of business support services, including access to funding, expert advice, training programs, and networking events to help businesses start and grow successfully. They provide tailored support to meet the specific needs of businesses at different stages of development.
  • Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry: The Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides a platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and access resources. They offer networking events, business support services, training programs, and advocacy for the local business community. Membership with the chamber can provide valuable opportunities for business promotion and growth.
  • Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership: The Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership works to drive economic growth and create opportunities for businesses in the region. They provide support for innovation, skills development, infrastructure projects, and access to funding. Their website offers information on business grants, local initiatives, and key sectors driving the local economy.

We hope this comprehensive guide serves as an invaluable resource for starting or running a business in Dorset. Exploring the websites of local authorities and business support organisations will provide you with further information, guidance, and assistance. Best of luck on your entrepreneurial journey in Dorset!

Local partners

We are happy to promote anyone who is prepared to offer friendly support to local start-ups.

Our local partners have been kind enough to help us and are keen to help you too.

Dormen - Dorset Business Mentoring
Hixsons
Envizage Ltd
Dorset Tech

Free Startup Resources

Getting it right from the start can help to prevent problems later.

To help you with this we have created a vast selection of resources and they are all completely free!

Latest articles

You don't know what you don't know!

The prospect of starting a new business can be incredibly exciting but should be approached with care. You have probably heard scary stories about how many start-ups fail in the early stages. You can make sure that you are not one of them by learning as much as possible before you launch. Over the years, we have collected lots of articles which will show you what has worked well for other start-ups and the putfalls to avoid.

See: Full List of Latest Start-Up Articles

Free Startup Guide

Start Your Own Business in 2021

Download the 2024 edition of our Free Start Your Own Business guide

An interactive step-by-step guide which also includes all of the most important subjects covered in an easy-to-read way with links to useful online articles and relevant contacts.

The idea of starting your own business can be incredibly exciting and who can blame you for being tempted?

However, the sad truth is that far too many new enterprises fail in the early stages. Our aim is to make sure that you don't become one of them.

This guide explains the key start-up subjects in simple English.

There is also plenty of help available in the area and much of it is free - please do make the most of it.

Read more about what our Free guide contains and how you can download it.
More Information and instant download
More Information and instant download
Starting a business in Dorset

Key Contacts in Dorset

'You don't know what you don't know' is a phrase that is so applicable to starting a new business.

Dorset is a great place for start-ups but your chances of success are dramatically improved if you make the most of the support that is available locally. Click on logos to visit their websites.

South Coast Design

Design

South Coast Design
South Coast Design is Dorsets award-winning graphic design, web design and corporate branding company. Our team will work tirelessly to create an iconic brand for your company with our extremely popular and cost-effective branding packages, that contain everything your new business needs to swamp the competition. We can help with logo design, flyers, brochures, exhibition visuals, product packaging, stunning social media pages... and much more! If you have any questions, dont hesitate to email us at info@southcoastdesign.co.uk or fill out the contact form on this website. Good luck with your new business, From the South Coast Design Team.
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Hixsons

Accountancy

Hixsons
If you are looking for a team of reliable, approachable, and proactive accountants in Dorset who will do more than just respond to your needs but work alongside you to help you succeed you have come to the right place. Our mission is to enable you to realise your goals by giving you the tools to set, measure and achieve your vision. All the tools you need to be a success are here at Hixsons - new ways of thinking about your business, so you work on it, not in it, all the time. If you only do the simple things right every time, everyone will think you are brilliant. We can show you how to do it easily. In today’s challenging business environment you need to be competitive and fast moving. This site provides you with a wide range of essential advice and information covering all aspects of business that you are welcome to use as your ‘one stop shop’ . These online services are free and updated regularly. We also take that approach when we work with you, giving you the support in all the areas that you need. Every business owner needs a team of professionals who provide continuous support and advice. That's what we're here to do. Through years of commitment to our business clients here at Hixsons in Bournemouth we have developed a wide range of skills and services designed to improve your performance and profitability. This is what a client says about us: "Prior to Hixsons, our company employed 2 accountancy firms from inception 20 years ago. Hixsons took on our company accountancy in 2010 and since this time have been proactive in their approach and made recommendations to available grants otherwise unknown to us. Changes to our personal structure have allowed us to make savings with realistic objectives possible. Hixsons are reliable, trustworthy and forward thinking. Our only regret is that we didn't find them sooner!"
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Premier Mortgage Associates

Financial Service

Premier Mortgage Associates
Premier Mortgage Associates, your trusted Mortgage & Protection experts. We specialise in providing exceptional service to our clients, making their dreams of homeownership a reality. With a dedicated team of experts and a wide range of services, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you find the perfect mortgage solution for your needs.
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Envizage Ltd

Payroll

Envizage Ltd
Envizage Ltd Wimborne, Dorset are independent payroll providers, Payroll Outsourcing and Moneysoft Payroll Manager 100 specialists. We help small to medium sized businesses (up to 75 employees) as well as indirect businesses through Accountants who do not directly provide a payroll service, achieve their payroll duties. We deliver affordable outsourcing solutions across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Somerset - in fact we don't just stop there, our services currently provide cover to businesses and Accountants across the South Coast and throughout the UK. With expertise in all areas of the payroll function, whether you are looking to fully Outsource your Payroll; require CIS Outsourcing; assistance with Auto Enrolment Workplace Pensions; need some Payroll Training; or just require payroll advice, support or guidance; Envizage Ltd provides a level of service to match. Our company ethos is to make your business feel as big and important as the larger organisations, and feedback highlights the need for decision makers to feel they can openly discuss direct. To this extent we employ an 'open door' approach like that found with an in-house department. In taking the time to guarantee that every client is given the same level of attention through working closely with Company Directors and Business Owners alike, this approach helps all parties to understand the needs of the business; assist with payroll delivery to employees; and providing seamless integration with existing accounting functions. Envizage Ltd know that payroll is of key importance to a business with employees often the backbone, and it is why we view them as more than just a number on your records! Services: - Payroll Outsourcing – Weekly, Fortnightly, Four-Weekly, Monthly and multi combinations thereof - CIS Outsourcing – Verifications, certificates, CIS300 submission, CIS offsetting and CITB Levy – processing of sub-contractors on Weekly, Fortnightly, Four-Weekly, Monthly and multi combinations thereof - P11D Year End calculations and submissions - Auto Enrolment Workplace Pension and Compliance filing - Payroll Training – Small group and one-to-one using Moneysoft Payroll Manager Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 08:30 to 17:00 Contacts: 07770 236385 01202 022308 0333 090 6247 www.envizage.net cball@envizage.net https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisballenvizage 119 Hillside Rd, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3SD
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Dorset Growth Hub

Advice

Dorset Growth Hub
Dorset Growth Hub offers professional guidance t oambitious Dorset pre-starts, start-ups, micro-businesses and SME's looking to grow. Our team prides themselves on our trusting and human approach. It’s in our nature. Our mission is to offer impartial and tailored guidance to each client. We deliver this in engaging, friendly and open dialogue. This is what makes us different. We thrive on successful and tangible results. These results are the smaller steps towards achieving the bigger picture - to increase and improve Dorset’s economy and employment through knowledge, experience and shared learning. Something we are proud to be a part of.
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Dorset Growth Hub

Advice

Dorset Growth Hub
WSX Enterprise has worked in partnership to secure a 3 year business support programme funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The core services of the existing Dorset Growth Hub (funded by the DLEP through BEIS) will be at the heart of this delivery, providing the web platform, telephone advice service and initial diagnostic (this local information is supplemented with links to content on external sites such as www.gov.uk ) Additional support on offer will be provided through dedicated strands of activity including: - pre-start and start-up support - supporting growth - improving digital capabilities - accessing finance - mentoring The programme is led by WSX Enterprise and the Dorset Growth Hub with a range of support partners. The main consortium partners are WSX Enterprise Ltd, The Arts Development Company, Dormen, Silicon South, YTKO (incl. Outset & GetSet for Growth) The Partnership includes the following Local Authorities: North Dorset, Christchurch and East Dorset, Weymouth & Portland, West Dorset, Bournemouth Borough Council, Borough of Poole, and Dorset County Council.
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Dorset Tech

Web design

Dorset Tech
The Dorset Superhero Web Design Agency As a social enterprise Dorset web design agency, we’re here to be the change we want to see in the world, not to make big dividends. We go further than any other agency to ensure you get more for your money. Our rates are the lowest around, our team some of the most experienced and yet our profits go back into the community to help others. Based in Gillingham, we have web design and app development customers all across Dorset and neighbouring counties. We’re proud to run the Dorset Science & Tech Centre, offering our unique Dorset Web Design drop-in clinics. We are the superhero web design agency in Dorset and we are here to save you!
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Dormen - Dorset Business Mentoring

Advice

Dormen - Dorset Business Mentoring
The Dorset Business Mentoring programme (Dormen) recognises that running your own business has its challenges whether you are a sole trader or employ up to 200 people. Established in 2005 Dormen is one of the UK’s most established mentoring programmes, providing business owners and entrepreneurs across Dorset, Poole and Bournemouth with one-to-one mentoring support, skills workshops, and a mutually supportive community. Our team of over 100 mentors have supported over 1400 businesses to date. We serve about 160 clients at any one time on a renewable annual basis, providing high quality, professional and confidential support through any stage of your business journey. If you are just about to set up your business, you are best to reach out for a mentor once you have established trading for about six months. Working with a mentor then enables you to review your aims and strategy, to discuss how things are going and any issues arising. Your mentor will act as an objective sounding board for your ideas and help you develop the skills you and your business need to achieve your measure of success. Mentoring is universally relevant to all types of business and helps reduce risk while increasing successful outcomes. As you start your business you may want to bear in mind a compelling statement borne of research by the Federation of Small Businesses: 70% of mentored businesses are twice as likely to survive their first five years as un-mentored businesses, and all businesses are more likely to thrive and grow. In addition independent research by the Winchester Business School, focussing on the impact of the Dormen programme, clearly demonstrated the benefits to businesses and their owners – particularly in terms of helping them to focus on priorities, review business strategy and pursue their plans with greater confidence. More than half the businesses surveyed improved their sales by 21.57% over the year. What does it cost? Dormen is a not-for-profit programme, funded by local authority partners. In consequence our service is accessible to all business owners as we only charge a nominal administration fee of £200 for a full year of mentoring. We also provide regular skills courses exclusively for clients free of charge. So reaching out for a Dormen mentor represents the opportunity for astounding return on investment, as well as sleep filled nights. We welcome all enquiries by phone, and also encourage you to look at our website which includes FAQ’s and a variety of case studies. If you would like to apply for a mentor please fill out the form in this link: http:www.dormen.org.ukwant-a-mentorrequest-a-mentor
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WSX Enterprise

Advice

WSX Enterprise
We work with small and medium sized businesses, social enterprises and other organisations across the south of England from our operational bases in Dorset and South Hampshire. Our team includes expertise in starting up & growing your business, ongoing business support, enterprise, business mentoring, skills, sustainability, innovation and design.
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Dorset Business Mentors

Mentoring

Dorset Business Mentors
Established in 2005 Dorset Business Mentors - formerly known as DorMen - was a founder member of the National Mentoring Network and is acknowledged as one of the most established and experienced services in the UK. We have developed a strong reputation for accurately matching mentors’ skills and expertise with the needs and goals of local business. Ensuring our clients remain the focus of all we do, our offer responds to your needs: ensuring you can access any specialist expertise among our Mentors, providing exclusive skills workshops developed in direct response to the needs of our clients and facilitated peer-to-peer networking - all for no additional cost. Central to our mission is to ensure our service remains incomparable and accessible to all businesses. Accredited and part-funded by Dorset’s local authorities we work closely with Partners who share our mission to support business growth and ensure an effective response to your individual business needs. Dorset Business Mentors, c/o Economic Growth & Regeneration Team, County Hall, Colliton Park Dorchester Dorset DT1 1XJ
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WSX Enterprise Ltd

Advice

WSX Enterprise Ltd
Our new in business course. Designed to help you succeed! When youre starting in business its important that you get the essentials right. These comprehensive, two day courses provide information and guidance to help deal with the key issues that are going to be fundamental to the performance and success of your business. They are delivered by experienced trainers - real business people who will give you the opportunity to ask questions and invite discussion. The courses are provided for people planning on starting a business or those who have recently started.
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Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership

Advice

Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership
We work in partnership with businesses, local government, education institutes and other industry and community organisations to drive economic growth, attract funding and investment, increase productivity and develop local industrial strategies for Dorset. Our priorities are to: Create new jobs; Attract new businesses and grow existing ones; Secure funding for projects that have long-term economic benefits; Support businesses; Develop skills, employment and career opportunities; Support the development of appropriate housing. Dorset LEP, 6th Floor, Poole House, Fern Barrow, Poole, Dorset BH12 5BB
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Networking Mummies Dorset

Networking

Networking Mummies Dorset
Networking Mummies is a dynamic, local business community created to support and encourage entrepreneurs and self-employed people. Our understanding of the challenges involved in juggling family life with starting or building a business mean we are especially focused on offering accessible opportunities for mums (or dads!) who work for themselves to share skills and ideas and get recommendations and endorsements. Membership is free, as are many of our events. We welcome new members at any stage of their business.
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Business West

Advice

Business West
Starting a business is a rewarding, challenging experience. But it's one that you don’t have to face alone. Whether you’ve got a business idea that you would like to explore further, or you’ve been trading for up to a year, we can help you gain the advice, knowledge and funding needed to improve your chances of success. From one-to-one support, to workshops, to advice on start-up loans, we can help.
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The Lonely Middle Club - From Startup Hive

Networking

The Lonely Middle Club - From Startup Hive
Starting a business is exciting, and succeeding is rewarding, but what about the bit between? You know, that bit that’s full of self-doubt, endless repetition and feelings of being out of your comfort zone? We call it ‘The Lonely Middle’ and it’s one of the hardest parts of creating a successful business. We know, we’ve been there. So, we created The Lonely Middle Club to help you through it. Each month you get exclusive content to help give you the knowledge and inspiration to succeed. Plus, you get access to a private members-only Facebook group where you can get advice and network with small business owners who are going through similar challenges to you. If you want even more, you can download our 51 worksheets, guides, and journals all designed to do one thing, and one thing only… help you get through ‘The Lonely Middle’ and achieve your business goals. Visit our website today to join the club and benefit from our members price lock and full no questions asked money-back guarantee.
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Dorset Chamber

Networking

Dorset Chamber
Being part of Dorset Chamber enables you to Protect, Promote & Connect your business. All members receive £1,000,000 of Legal Expenses Insurance, discount AA membership and access to over 500 online training courses. We have one of the largest online business news portals covering members news exclusively & the Dorset Business Focus Magazine. We Connect businesses with likeminded contacts at our extensive networking and training events.
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Networking

Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Our aim is to focus entirely on our members, Delivering first class services to help businesses grow and prosper. Our aim is to lead business in Dorset.We offer Business Foundations and Training Tuesday workshops, aiming to develop skills in essential areas Address: Acorn Office Park,Ling Road,Tower Park,Dorset,BH12 4NZ
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Directories

Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Dorset Chamber of Commerce represents businesses of all sizes and sectors from across the County of Dorset and beyond delivering the very best services, business information and advice. We hold over 100 events and training courses every year and strive to give all its members the opportunity to learn, meet new contacts and promote their business through networking or sponsorship opportunities. Acorn Office Park, Ling Road, Tower Park, Dorset BH12 4NZ. E-mail:contact@dorsetbusiness.net
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Advice

Connected Dorset
The Connected Dorset Group has been long established as a sub-group of the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership. The aim of the group in partnership is to promote an efficient and reliable transport infrastructure and high speed communications system - designed to help facilitate local economic growth by creating the right conditions for more highly skilled jobs and housing.
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Advice

Dorset Growth Hub
WSX Enterprise has worked in partnership to secure a 3 year business support programme funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The core services of the existing Dorset Growth Hub (funded by the DLEP through BEIS) will be at the heart of this delivery, providing the web platform, telephone advice service and initial diagnostic (this local information is supplemented with links to content on external sites such as www. gov.uk ) Additional support on offer will be provided through dedicated strands of activity including: pre-start and start-up support; supporting growth; improving digital capabilities; accessing finance, and mentoring. The Enterprise strand is a dedicated team to help pre-start and young businesses with a range of interventions including short workshops and more in depth courses as well as one-to-one support from an Enterprise Specialist. The programme is led by WSX Enterprise and the Dorset Growth Hub with a range of support partners. To access support contact #talktotony on 03454 586480 or visit www.dorsetgrowthhub.co.uk
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Advice

Dorset For You
Advice and guidance to assist you in setting up your business in Dorset.
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Advice

Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership
The Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is a business led private and public sector partnership that aims to promote local economic growth and prosperity. Acting as a strategic gateway to funding, Dorset LEP supports and delivers projects of long term economic benefit for all in Dorset. Business support activity is directed through the Dorset Growth Hub which offers access to a wide range of business advice and support services. For more information visit www.dorsetgrowthhub.co.uk or call 03434 586480.
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Advice

Samee Project
Where do I start … what shall I do first … who should I talk to … Is it just us, or do you feel that way too! There are so many things going on and you want to make sure that you make the right choices. We understand exactly what you are feeling. Sometimes it is hard to make a decision, or to decide what path to choose, so why not talk to us and let us help you. We have a huge network of people that we can call to ask that all important question, making sure you get the answers so you can make an informed choice for the future.
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Advice

Invest in Dorset
Invest in Dorset is a team of economic development professionals across Dorset dedicated to helping companies and investors identify investment and expansion opportunities in and around Dorset. It helps provide businesses support tailored to their needs, whether it is by providing information, making introductions and helping them form a network or helping to find suitable premises. Whether you are thinking about starting a new business, expanding your operations, relocating, or seeking a UK base, Invest in Dorset can help you. Invest in Dorset will ensure you get the best advice on current financial assistance and all the support you need to be as successful as you want to be.
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Start-up articles

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You can see the full list of 'articles' at: How to start a business

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