If you're considering starting a business or already running one in Somerset, this section is designed to provide you with valuable information and resources to support your entrepreneurial journey.
Somerset, located in the South West region of England, is known for its stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant market towns.
Demographics
Somerset has a diverse population of approximately 560,000 residents, offering a mix of rural and urban communities. The county attracts tourists with its picturesque countryside, seaside resorts, and charming villages, creating opportunities for various business ventures.
Major Towns and Cities in Somerset
-
Bath
: Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination. With a population of over 90,000 residents, it offers a mix of historic architecture, cultural attractions, and a thriving hospitality sector.
-
Yeovil
: Yeovil is a bustling market town in Somerset with a population of approximately 45,000 residents. The town has a strong manufacturing and engineering presence, making it an attractive location for businesses in those sectors.
-
Taunton
: Taunton, the county town of Somerset, has a population of around 70,000 residents. It serves as a hub for retail, leisure, and administrative activities, offering a range of business opportunities.
Local Authorities in Somerset
Local authorities can help you understand the business landscape and provide access to useful resources. They are responsible for numerous business related subjects such as health & safety, planning, business rates, and often have a department dedicated to economic development.
-
Somerset County Council
: Somerset County Council is the local authority responsible for a range of services in the county. Their website provides information on business rates, planning and development, licensing, and community initiatives.
-
Mendip District Council
: Mendip District Council covers towns and areas such as Frome, Shepton Mallet, and Wells. Visit their website for local business support, planning permission, and community services.
-
South Somerset District Council
: South Somerset District Council serves towns and areas including Yeovil, Crewkerne, and Chard. Their website provides information on business rates, licensing, planning, and economic development.
-
Sedgemoor District Council
: Sedgemoor District Council covers towns and areas such as Bridgwater and Burnham-on-Sea. Visit their website for business support, planning guidance, and local services.
-
North Somerset Council
: North Somerset Council serves areas including Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon, and Portishead. Their website offers resources on starting and growing a business, planning applications, and local initiatives.
-
West Somerset Council
: West Somerset Council covers towns and areas such as Minehead and Watchet. Visit their website for business support, planning information, and community services.
Business Support Organisations in Somerset
In addition to the local authorities, Somerset offers access to various business support organisations that can provide valuable guidance and resources. Consider exploring the following organisations:
-
Somerset Chamber of Commerce
: Somerset Chamber of Commerce is a business support network that aims to foster growth and prosperity in the county. Their website offers resources, events, networking opportunities, and business support services.
-
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
: The Growth Hub provides support for businesses across Somerset and the wider South West region. Their website offers information on funding, training, and business advisory services.
-
Somerset Business Agency
: Somerset Business Agency offers free advice, support, and training to help businesses start, grow, and succeed in Somerset. Visit their website for information on funding, business planning, and networking opportunities.
-
Somerset Enterprise Centres
: Somerset Enterprise Centres provide affordable office space, meeting rooms, and business support services for start-ups and small businesses. Their website offers details on available facilities and support programs.
We hope this comprehensive guide serves as a valuable resource for starting or running a business in Somerset. Exploring the websites of Somerset County Council, Mendip District Council, South Somerset District Council, Sedgemoor District Council, North Somerset Council, West Somerset Council, Somerset Chamber of Commerce, Heart of the South West Growth Hub, Somerset Business Agency, and Somerset Enterprise Centres will provide you with further information, guidance, and assistance. Best of luck with your entrepreneurial endeavours in Somerset!
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.
90 days to plan your business
If you're already dreading Christmas and New Year because your new business is going to take up all your free time - don't panic, you've got 90 days to plan for it.
Strategies to Help Startups Scale Effectively
Scaling a startup business can be an exciting journey full of promise, but it’d be naive to ignore the potential challenges along the way.
4 Ways to Get Known Fast
Want to know one of the biggest challenges women face when trying to grow their idea, knowledge, or service based businesses?
AI Made Simple: Practical Tips for Start-Ups
There is plenty of talk about how AI can benefit new and existing businesses, but what does that mean for YOU?
Starting a Home Baking Business in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does everyone compliment your baking and suggest that you should start your own business?
Getting Yourself Into a Business Mindset
Being an entrepreneur is a challenging journey and here are many obstacles to overcome on your way to success - that can be overwhelming and daunting.
10 ways to cope with entrepreneurial stress
Do you know what the source of your stress is?
5 Ways That New Businesses Are Losing Money (And What You Can Do About It)
Small businesses can only survive if they are consistently generating a profit.
11 Reasons to a Choose Cloud Accounting Solution
You finally get to be your own boss and focus on what you're good at and be free from office politics, the bureaucracy of filling in endless forms or being sent in all directions.
Ever thought of taking the plunge?
In today's world, more and more people are not just thinking about setting up their own business, but are taking action.
Free Cashflow Template and Instructions
Download our free cashflow forecast template together with the instructions required to help you create and update an accurate guide to your business finances.
Free Business Plan Template and Instructions
Designed to make the task of compiling a business plan as painless as possible.
Starting a Business: A Guide for UK Service Leavers
Transitioning from military life to civilian life can be challenging, but starting your own business offers an exciting and rewarding path forward.
How to Start a Not-for-Profit Business in the UK
If you are thinking about starting a social enterprise but not sure of the correct legal status to adopt, we hope that this article will help you understand the advantagaes and disadvantages of your available options.
Starting a Business as a Young Person: Your Comprehensive Guide
The great news is that there is no minimum age requirement to set up your own business.
Show Me The Money!
How can my contracts ensure prompt payment from my customers?
Is it Really Artisan vs. Automation?
The Impact of Filling Machines on Artisanal Production
Starting a Business Over 50: Your Comprehensive Guide
Starting a business can be a thrilling and rewarding endeavour, regardless of age.
3 tips for taking holidays away as a small business owner
Will you ever have an undisturbed holiday again?! Yes, some advanced planning is all it takes.
Stress isn't always a bad thing - it can be positive too
Looking at the stressors in our work lives and finding the positives.
Top Tips to Get Your First Business Event Off the Ground
As a startup business owner or entrepreneur looking for their first venture, hosting your first business event can be equal parts nerve-wracking and exciting.
Unlocking the Potential of Unique Event Locations
If you’re looking to wow your guests and set your business apart when it comes to events, you need to look outside of the traditional realm of event spaces.
Things you ought to know but probably don't want to!
A brief description of the major new employment laws (UK, 2024).
Women and neurodiversity in business start ups
Recognising neurodiversity as a challenge, but celebrating it's positive force for women in new business.
Why Business Owners Should Consider AI in Their Marketing.
Let's look closer at Common Fears and Apprehensions.
Marketing through storytelling
Consider storytelling as part of your overall marketing strategy.
How To Establish And Nurture A Healthy Workplace Culture
For startups of any size and in any industry, creating a strong and positive workplace culture is a good foundation for growing a healthy business and team of staff.
The Most Important Section of Your Business Plan
The executive summary is potentially the most important part of your business plan.
Improve your marketing by hanging out with your ideal customers
A quick guide to improving your marketing tactics
Could a professional writer help your business?
To be successful as a small business you need to persuade your potential customers to buy your products or services and this can only be achieved if you give them all of the information they need to make an informed decision.
Previous
Next
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.