Business start-ups continue to grow

The latest department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) report on Small and Medium-sized enterprise (SME) Statistics for the UK and Regions (2008) indicated a successive increase in the number of private sector enterprises in the UK.

There were an estimated 4.8 million private enterprises in 2008, an increase of 2.2% on the previous year’s figures. These enterprises had an estimated turnover of £3,000 billion and were responsible for employing 23.1 million people. Despite the backdrop of recession, it appears that starting up a new business; with the opportunity for self employment or to realise an ambition; continues to appeal to thousands of people every year.

Starting up a business is always difficult and can be even more challenging during times of recession. However, there are always opportunities that can be exploited and there continues to be a wealth of assistance available, both in terms of advice and support, and financial help and grants.

Dr Stuart Slater, Director of the University of Wolverhampton’s e-Innovation Centre says: “There has never been a better time to take advantage of any business launch, incubation or grow-on support that is backed by leading edge universities such as the University of Wolverhampton. Through our business services we are able to add real value to both prospective businesses and the region’s economic climate through our research, knowledge transfer and skilled consultants.

This helps regional businesses to compete in an ever growing global marketplace. Award winning, state-of-the-art incubation facilities with easy access and the backing of the University means that now is the time ideas should become businesses while the world economy begins to recover from events of the last few years.”

In addition to other support services, the University of Wolverhampton is also a partner in the Wolverhampton Business Solutions Centre, a collaboration with Wolverhampton City Council, City of Wolverhampton College, the Black Country Chamber of Commerce and West Midlands Business Link that provides businesses with information about the support offered by all partners from a single point of contact. Tel: 01902 321 272 Email: enquiries@wolverhamptonbsc.com , Visit: http://www.wolverhamptonbsc.com/