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Q: I have a great fledgling business but cannot move forward as I need money for advertising on the Internet. Are there any start-up business grants still available in this country? Can you suggest other methods of spreading the word?

Feb 26 2007

Answered by: Philip Wilkinson     Ask a question

It would be best for you to contact your local Enterprise Agency to discuss business support for start-up and fledgling businesses in your area. Initially, you can go to www.nfea.com, which will direct you to your local agency.

Marketing doesn’t need to cost a fortune, so think outside the square for other ways to promote your business. Word of mouth is a very powerful tool, so encourage referrals with an incentive and attend seminars and events to build up your networks and become well known in your industry and local community.

Direct mail and email marketing can be very cost effective because they’re highly targeted, and remember it’s cheaper to keep existing customers than gain new ones, so promotional offers especially for them and loyalty schemes might be a good option for you. You can also get creative in your approach with mass media and work with radio stations and magazines for free advertising in exchange for providing products or services for giveaways.

For more marketing ideas, go to the Business Link London website: www.businesslink4london.com, (From April 2007 - www.bllondon.co.uk)

 
Comments [5]
Comment by Kursha Woodgate
Wednesday 21st March 2007

You should also look at marketing techniques you can 'DIY'. PR is a great tool, an article in your target trade publications will go a long way to raising your profile. Equally, you could look at relevant blogs and discussion fora online to raise your web presence without investing in advertising. Check out the DIY PR guide on this website for some information to get you started. Good luck!

Kursha Woodgate
Mexia Communications


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Comment by Mark Margetts-Smith
Wednesday 21st March 2007

There are many ways to advertise yourself without the need to advertise online. Online advertising has to be specifically targeted or you are wasting your time and money. If you would like any advice, for free, then please email us at mms@impressionmedia.net.

Mark Margetts-Smith
Impression Media


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Comment by Chloie Brandrick
Friday 23rd March 2007

There is an extensive grants and support database on the business link site - click here.


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Comment by Simon Westmore
Tuesday 3rd April 2007

If it is a simple small £500 grant please consider looking at the www.supportbritain.com site. The process is a very quick one and is NOT restricted to any one area. Good luck to anyone who is looking.

Kind Regards
Simon Westmore
Founder of Support Britrain


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Comment by michael lovering
Thursday 19th April 2007

I would like to start up my own business but lack the finance. I understand the Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme may help me but i have to find 25% of the total amount.
So l am looking for a start up grant, any ideas?


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