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How to Start a Business in Guildford

Free start-up resources and useful local contacts.

Improve your chances of success!

How to Start a Business in Guildford

Starting a business in Guildford

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

Start Your Own Business in Guildford 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 Guildford

Local help for startups

There is plenty of help for startups in Guildford 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

Starting a Business in Guildford

What you need to know!
View of Bristol High Street

If you're considering starting a business or expanding your existing venture in Guildford Borough, you've come to the right place.

Guildford Borough, located in the picturesque county of Surrey, England, is a thriving area with a rich history, diverse demographics, and an environment that's conducive to business growth.

Demographics

Guildford Borough is home to a diverse population, attracting residents from various backgrounds and walks of life. This diversity creates a unique market with a wide range of consumer preferences, offering excellent opportunities for businesses to thrive.

Major Suburbs

Guildford Borough encompasses several major suburbs, each with its distinctive characteristics and business potential. Here are some notable suburbs in Guildford Borough:

  • Guildford:
    The heart of the Borough with a population of over 77,000. With easy access to everything that you would possibly need, it is the perfect place to start and run a business.
  • Stoke Park:
    Located to the west of the borough, Stoke Park offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, providing opportunities for diverse business ventures.
  • Burpham:
    Located to the north of Guildford town, Burpham is a popular suburb with a thriving community and a range of local businesses catering to residents' needs.
  • Merrow:
    Situated to the northeast, Merrow is known for its green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal place for local businesses.
Local Authority

Guildford Borough Council is the local authority responsible for governing and supporting businesses in the area. Their website provides essential resources and information for businesses, including licensing, permits, and economic development initiatives. You can access the business section of their website for specific guidance and support:

Business Support Organisations

Guildford Borough offers a range of organisations that provide support and resources for entrepreneurs and businesses. Here are some notable organisations you can turn to for assistance:

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.

Payroll Bureau
Johnny Taylor Photography
Hunt 4 Office Solutions
Aspect Printing
FREE Support for Guildford Start-Ups
Best Business

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 & Grow Your Business in Guildford

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 Guildford

Key Contacts in Guildford

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

Guildford 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.

Surrey Web Designs

Web design

Surrey Web Designs
Surrey Web Designs deliver creativity for award winning ITV celebrity hairdresser Leo Bancroft, we are trusted by the local Citizens Advice Service, host corporate designs for defence companies and provide a personal touch for professionals. For an example of our work please see https:leobancroft.com Based in Surrey, we are close knit team providing a personal one on one service to our clients. Our designers have worked together for over 25 years and deliver stunning, bespoke designs, with functionality and automation at a manageable price. WEB DESIGN | MOBILE FRIENDLY LAYOUTS | SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION | HOSTING | SOCIALS | SUPPORT Our clients enjoy a complete online solution for one price, which covers everything needed to help you grow your online presence. No web design company owns Google and is therefore unable to guarantee 1st page results. Whilst we are driven by your Google ranking, we always manage new client’s expectations, only guaranteeing to apply the same tested and trailed method of Search Engine Optimisation that has seen all our established clients rank on page one of Google. We work with our clients to understand their business and build their website around their SEO. In response to our service and ongoing hosting support, our clients have given us a verified solid 5-star Google business rating. Ready to discuss your new or replacement website? Call our sales manager Sarah for a no obligation chat on 07512 443336
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Surrey Community Action

Office Services

Surrey Community Action
Outsourcing your business support needs to Surrey Community Action helps your bottom line and supports another charity too. We work with hundreds of organisations providing DBS checks, payroll services, meeting room hire and a host of other types of support.
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Hunt 4 Office Solutions

HR

Hunt 4 Office Solutions
After 24 years of working in Payroll & HR, Kerry Hunt established Hunt 4 Office Solutions to provide a cost effective outsourcing service for start-ups and established small businesses. Whatever your company’s size we understand that a business doesn’t always require a permanent Payroll & HR function and certainly not a full time one! As a start-up or small business you may be new to Payroll & HR management and only have a small team to pay and records to keep. Outsourcing enables you to get on with building your business without worrying about compliance. We can manage your monthly payroll andor HR needs with diligence and efficiency, saving you time and relieving the pressure on your other financialadmin duties. Our PayrollHR Service provides: • A dedicated contact to arrange your payroll according to the requirements of your business. • An HMRC recognised service that uses accredited payroll software. • Notification of PAYE sums. • P11Ds and P60s • Completed and filed returns. • Full compliance with Real Time Information (RTI) software • Pension Auto-enrolment • Terms and conditions of employment • Policiesprocedures • New starter documents Starting up can be daunting so pick up the phone and let us help you get on with growing your business rather than getting held up in the details – 07976 239284
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Opportunity Marketing

Marketing

Opportunity Marketing
 ? WHAT I DO: ? I help SME business owners boost their turnover and bottom line by supporting the creation of an effective marketing strategy? By using over 20 years’ experience in applying proven and robust approaches I help businesses to attract and engage with new prospects and secure profitable business. Book a FREE 30-minute call to discover how I can help you get the results you are looking for with your marketing Fiona.ellingham@opportunitymarketing.co.uk | 07534 094932 | 020 8391 4404 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-ellingham/
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Let's Do Marketing

Marketing

Let's Do Marketing
Let’s Do Marketing is a subsidiary of Let’s Do Business Group that is here to help small businesses grow through marketing. Focussed on providing affordable and accessible support to new and small businesses, they offer consultancy and marketing services that can help you to achieve your big marketing ideas. Whether you’re just starting out with a brand new business or looking to grow, we can give you the guidance to create a marketing strategy that matches your goals. Let’s Do Marketing can also provide training to help you take control of your own marketing strategy, from learning new software and tools to creating award winning campaigns! Find out more about our services https://www.letsdomarketing.co.uk/ Want to chat about how Let’s Do Marketing can help you to level up your business? Get in touch at https://www.letsdomarketing.co.uk/contact or email us at hello@letsdomarketing.co.uk!
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Aquarius Blinds

Directory

Aquarius Blinds
Aquarius Blinds offer bespoke sun blinds and awnings for residential property or commercial premises anywhere in the UK. We offer a vast product choice at realistic prices, made in the UK and fitted by our in-house team, with a fast turnaround service. Visit the website to find out more.
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Tim Greenwood & Associates

Property

Tim Greenwood & Associates
Tim Greenwood & Associates undertake surveys on an extensive range of properties. Whether you are looking at buying a new home or commercial premises, Tim Greenwood can provide you with detailed advice and more. Visit the website today and get in contact with the friendly team for a free quote.
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Access business finance up to £150k

Funding

Access business finance up to £150k
Let’s Do Business Finance offers funding to both start-up businesses and businesses wanting to grow and invest in their future. Start up finance We’re one of the official Business Support Partners of the British Business Bank and Start Up Loan Company. We can offer loans from £500 up to £25k with a fixed interest rate of 6% per annum, and that includes 12 months of free mentoring to help you get off to the best start. Could you be eligible? Find out more https://www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/lets-start-up Business loans Let’s Do Business Finance are able to offer business loans to help established businesses to grow. We’re accredited lenders of the Recovery Loan Scheme under the British Business Bank, and we’re able to lend from £25,001 to £150,000 on terms from 3 months to 6 years. This business finance can be used to help you secure anything from new premises, equipment, and capital, and our team can help you to assess your cash flow and finances, build your marketing strategy and more with our built-in business support which is tailored to your needs. Want to learn more about business loans, and see if you’re eligible? Visit our website https://www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/ or send us an enquiry https://www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/contact-us
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Sash Window Experts

Directory

Sash Window Experts
Do you have draughtly, rattly or rotten box sash windows? Call Sash Window Experts and have your home’s beautiful original features restored to their former glory. From timber defects to double glazing, our experienced craftsmen will visit homes all over the South East. Get in touch today.
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BNI Surrey

Networking

BNI Surrey
BNI Surrey operates networking and referral groups all across Surrey and the London boroughs of Kingston, Sutton and Merton. Their members open doors for each other-introductions or referrals. BNI is a worldwide organisation and system it works really well for its members but its not right for everyone. The best way to find out if BNI is a good fit for you and your business is to have a no obligation trial visit to your nearest group you can see a map of all of the groups at: https://bnisurrey.com/en-GB/StartHere (click button below).
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Surrey County Council - Starting a New Business

Advice

Surrey County Council - Starting a New Business
Surrey County Council appreciates starting a new business has many pitfalls so they have put together some key information that should help you if you are providing products or a service to customers.
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First Vehicle Finance

Directory

First Vehicle Finance
First Vehicle Finance Ltd are a car leasing and van leasing brokers with many years’ experience in helping you secure the best deal for your next private or commercial vehicle. Let us guide you through the process, helping you get the best vehicle for your needs, on the best terms for your wallet.
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Fabulous Women

Networking

Fabulous Women
Fabulous Women is a not-for-profit community of women celebrating our lives and our businesses. We aim to encourage and support women in life and business by providing cost effective ways to network, collaborate and share our know-how. We host netwinning meetings (because fabulous women dont just network, we netwin) and are growing fast. Why not come along and experience the difference? No membership is required and you can choose to come and go as you please.
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Golf Swing Systems Ltd

Directory

Golf Swing Systems Ltd
Golf Swing Systems Ltd design, manufacture and installation of indoor golfing studios, training courses, launch monitor systems, video golf coaching systems and much more. We can design the exact set-up you need, no matter how big or small, whether it is for practice, pleasure or business.
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Business Surrey

Advice

Business Surrey
Business Surrey provides a free business advice service and access to expert support to help businesses drive sustainable success in Surrey. We can help with business growth, funding and grants, as well as regulation and licensing. We also have a directory of support services with everything you need to help your business grow available in one place. Surrey County Council, Woodhatch Place, 11 Cockshot Hill, Woodhatch, Reigate, RH2 8EF
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Johnny Taylor Photography

Photography

Johnny Taylor Photography
I am a Experienced Professional Product, Packshot and Food Photographer. I have worked on projects ranging from e-commerce to advertising and catalogues to brochures. I can provide photography either in-studio or on-location and have all studio equipment needed. Whatever your product, be it wine, clothing or electronics, I can provide excellent quality photography for any type of product. My trade-mark photographic style is vibrant and high-definition so you can expect fantastic quality shots that will enhance your product and stand-out on any advertising or promotional medium. My rates are always reasonable and affordable. Plus, if you are based within 15 miles of Guilford, I offer free collection and return. I am based in the Guildford Farnham Godalming Aldershot area of Surrey but I cover the Farnborough, Woking, Dorking, Cranleigh, Haslemere, Alton areas of Surrey and Hampshire.
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Let's Do Business Group

Advice

Let's Do Business Group
With the ability to help businesses across all sectors, our team can offer business consultancy services to help you achieve your goals. The Let’s Do Business Group can provide virtual business consultancy services through our team of business professionals and quality assured consultants. Whether its developing a business plan or strategy, coaching or mentoring of senior staff and business owners, or just being a sounding board our team are here to help. We offer a free initial consultation so that we understand your needs, and you get to know us. We will then agree how we will work together and our fees – this could be from a one off session, a short support programme or a longer term project. We also have access to a range of other business specialists to help you with anything from Marketing to HR – so whatever your need, we can find a solution. Contact the team today at https://www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk/contact-us or email info@ldbgroup.co.uk
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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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Woking Works - Events

Networking

Woking Works - Events
woking works website has a page dedicated to their own forthcoming events as well as others that may be of interest to the wider Woking business community.
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Wessex Garage Doors

Directory

Wessex Garage Doors
Upgrade your garage door this year by utilising the expertise of Wessex Garage Doors. Skilled in repair, maintenance and installation of a wide range of garage doors, the specialist team have a reputation for delivering a first-class service to each of their clients. Discover more on our website.
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Aspect Printing

Print

Aspect Printing
Aspect Printing is a Guildford Surrey based digital print business. We work with companies of all sizes and all across the UK to provide them with the best quality digital printing services. We specialise in high quality digital printing and our specialist skills, knowledge and equipment enable us to deliver superior print results.
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Web design

JJ Web Solutions Ltd
JJ Solutions have been working with small to medium businesses since the dawn of the internet. We take great satisfaction in helping startup businesses get online and most importantly compete for their key terms in their target areas. Our SEO service is affordable and provides a great ROI.
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Advice

Surrey Chambers of Commerce
Surrey Chambers of Commerce is the county’s largest independent not-for-profit business support and networking organisation. We love to champion Surrey’s businesses, so why not join and be one of them? Small Business with massive ambitions We work closely with businesses of all sizes, understanding the pressures on smaller organisations and helping them achieve their ambitions. You’d be surprised how much your business has in common with others, find out how you can benefit from joining us.
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Advice

Guildford Borough Council Business support
Free advice and support service in partnership with Enterprise M3 Growth Hub and BE Group. Existing and start-up businesses in the borough can benefit from Guildford Business Growth - our free-of-charge service which includes telephone advice, face-to-face monthly clinics and three workshops on specific topics tailored to a variety of business needs. You can find out more about this service at Guildford Business Growth. For free support advice please call the business support helpline on: 0300 4563565. To book into a business clinic please call 01483 478108. To find out more about the Growth Hub visit https:www.enterprisem3growthhub.co.ukthe-growth-service.
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Advice

Enterprise M3 Growth Hub
Aimed at businesses looking to succeed in the Enterprise M3 area, the Enterprise M3 Growth Hub is an expert advice and resource network which helps businesses achieve results quickly through a free personal, tailored service focused on Growth. Delivered by BE Group with its expert partners, SETsquared, Business South and the County Councils of Hampshire and Surrey, the Enterprise M3 Growth Hub is driving impact by working in new ways based on what businesses tell us they need, to help them fulfil their potential.
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Advice

Surrey Chambers of Commerce Start Up Clinics
Are you thinking of starting a business, or maybe you’ve already started one and need some advice? Setting up a business is an exciting and inspirational opportunity but can also prove to be extremely challenging, especially on your own. Surrey Chambers of Commerce are pleased to be able to bring you these free 1-2-1 Business Start-up Clinics to help you on your journey to success.
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Advice

Business Options
Business Options are a specialist Franchising and Business Expansion consultancy, that combines hands-on experience with established business practices, to provide tailored, practical, realistic advice and support in the fields of Franchising, Licensing, Distributorships, Agencies and other forms of Business Expansion.
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Funding

S100 Club
The S100 Club is a unique Angel Investment Network, showcasing the best innovative high-growth propositions. It is a not-for-profit club with a focus on creating a strong and connected network of investors and presenting them with the best investment propositions from across the UK.
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Funding

Enterprise M3 Funding Escalator
The Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership has committed £10million of capital to create a new funding escalator comprising a loan scheme and an equity fund managed by The FSE Group. If you are an ambitious SME based within the Enterprise M3 geographic area* with the potential to deliver high growth and employment opportunities, you may be eligible to apply. Our fund managers offer guidance and support during the application process and further help after the loan or investment is made. We always aim to provide a speedy response to any enquiry.
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Networking

BNI Surrey
The benefits of BNI membership are many, varied and, most importantly, proven to help build any kind of business. Networking has never been more powerful. As soon as you join BNI, you’ll effectively receive an instant ‘marketing’ team – a group of local business people who will start searching out new customers for you.
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IT

CloudTech24
One Stop Shop providing comprehensive and flexible business IT services with a focus on driving efficiencies and productivity and delivering cyber security protection.
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Start-up articles

100's of free startup articles

We have created a collection of 100s of startup articles to help anyone with whatever stage they are on with their business journey. Hundreds of thousands of people have gone before you and we can learn from what they got right and avoid the things that have been proved not to work so well.

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

FREE Start-up Pack

This FREE start-up pack contains everything that you need to get you started.

Startup Pack

Start-up Guides

Our FREE downloadable guides are packed with the information that you need to start and grow a your business.

Startup Pack