Support for businesses

Starting your own business?

Get free advice

If you're starting your own business you can get free independent confidential advice from Enterprise First.

Waverley works closely with Enterprise First and is one of a number of organisations providing funding to them.

They offer support appropriate to the needs of a business including one-to-one meetings with a business advisor, a range of workshops including book-keeping and marketing and networking events. 

To find out more or book an appointment visit the Enterprise First website or contact them on 0845 4587535.

Business rates

If you use a building or part of a building for business, you will probably have to pay business rates.  Find out more at www.waverley.gov.uk/businessrates.

Making your business greener

Reducing the amount of carbon emissions resulting from your business will save you money and will also enhance your reputation.

The Carbon Trust is a not for profit company specialising in helping businesses cut cost and carbon through energy efficiency.  They offer a number of services and support, with free online tools, promotional materials as well as specialist advice to SME's as well as larger businesses, please visit the Carbon Trust website for further information.

Further information on Environment and Efficiency for businesses is also available on the Business Link website.

Selling to the council

Waverley Borough Council spends in excess of £27 million a year on bought-in goods, works and services from the private and public sectors to provide quality and cost-effective services to local people.

The Procurement section provides clear information about procurement procedures, advice on supplying us and information on Council contracts that you can bid for.

Useful sources of information and support for local businesses 

The following organisations are also useful sources of information and support to local businesses: 

Business Link is the Government's online resource for business.  Their website contains the latest guidance on regulations and has a number of useful online tools and best practice case studies. 

The Waverley Business Forum (WBF) represents all businesses in Waverley.  Chaired by local businessman and entrepreneur, Seamus Grealish, it is a link between the local business community and Waverley Borough Council.

Surrey Chambers of Commerce, with a membership representing every sector of the workforce, works hard to ensure that the continued growth of the area takes into account the needs of business, as well as providing a range of high quality services to help you grow your business and meet new potential customers.

Surrey Economic Partnership (SEP) is a network of members who are looking at the challenges, and promoting the strengths of, the Surrey economy. 

The Connect 2 Innovation Team advises start-ups and high growth companies including social enterprise businesses on key issues and obstacles that can impede business success.

Page owner: Clare Arnold. Last updated: 29/03/2012 15:48