I've just discovered loads of information online via Manchester Central Library: http://www.manchester.gov.uk/site/scripts/downloads.php?categoryID=445 Could be hlpful if you're starting out.
Business Plan Contents Tips & Advice The SIE Website has an excellent section on the contents for your business plan. There are other resources here also. http://www.sie.ac.uk/resources_writingbusinessplan.aspx
I didn't know either - I popped along yesterday for a nosey - it's not as great as the City Library (london) but you can access all the Keynote reports for free and print out 5% and they also have Mintel on a pc too, plus cobweb, datamonitor. I noticed there's an inventors group which meet there and I took away loads of up to date stuff on IP. They also run free Patent clinics. The usual trade journals are there too plus a lot of industry reports, bizz books (some which can be taken out) They also run events and workshops too.
I've also just applied to join the online Library: http://www.manchester.gov.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?categoryID=200062&documentID=110 This will enable me to access stuff like COBRA and anyone can join wherever they live.
LOL! Info is here: http://www.cobwebinfo.com/ I've now signed up to the Manchester ibrary online and it's been so helpful - lots of stats and market research available via the COBRAinfo, up to date - very useful and FREE!
Thanks BellaMiller - good job! Though it's American, www dot sba dot gov has a ton of useful small business stuff - podcasts, pdfs etc as well. it's all food for thought. Best regards Terry Kyle Author/Editor "400 Latest & Greatest Small Business Ideas From Around The World"
You can also go here for free information On our website because we have loads of free reports, business downloads and tax advice. Go on - take a look - it is FREE! And I am happy to answer questions from forum members too. cheers shaun