Starting a business
Use this page to find support, advice and council services that may help you start or run a business in Swindon.
Support and advice
If you are starting a business in Swindon, you can get support from local and national organisations.
Growth Hub
The Growth Hub gives impartial business support and advice. It can help you find:
- business events
- seminars and training
- specialist programmes
- funding
- advice to help you start and grow your business
You can get start-up advice by calling 01225 402096.
GOV.UK business advice
GOV.UK business advice has online guides and tools for businesses. This includes information about Contracts Finder and the Finance and Business Support Finder.
You can also read the GOV.UK guide to setting up a business. It covers practical steps such as registering your business, licensing, banking, VAT, National Insurance and employing people.
Business West
Business West supports people who want to start a business. It can help if you have a business idea or have been trading for up to one year.
Support includes:
- one-to-one advice
- workshops
- help to apply for a start-up loan
- advice, knowledge and funding to improve your chances of success
Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce
Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Group works with businesses of different sizes, from micro-businesses to multinational organisations.
It supports better economic conditions and new opportunities for members and the wider community. It aims to be a leading voice for business in the Thames Valley, including Swindon.
Federation of Small Businesses
The Federation of Small Businesses runs events in Swindon. Members can also get information, including factsheets about starting and running a business.
The King’s Trust
The King’s Trust Enterprise programme helps people aged 18 to 30 who are unemployed or working less than 16 hours a week.
Support includes:
- workshops
- test trading
- financial support
- a mentor
You can call 0800 842842.
Licences and permits
You may need a licence or permit to run your business.
Read our licences and permits information.
Planning permission
You may need planning permission or building regulations approval for your business.
Read our planning and building control information.
Business rates
Business rates are charged on commercial properties. Some businesses, including eligible small businesses, may be able to get rate relief.
Find out more about business rates.
Business waste and recycling
You must arrange for your business rubbish to be collected. You can use a commercial contractor or the council’s business waste service.
Find out more about business and commercial waste.
Employing staff
GOV.UK guidance on employing someone for the first time explains what you need to do before you take on an employee.
This includes checking employment status, making your workplace safe and accessible, registering as an employer, and setting up Pay As You Earn (PAYE).
Selling to the council
Find out about selling to Swindon Borough Council.
Tax and National Insurance
You can get help with tax, National Insurance, business records and expenses from HM Revenue and Customs.
Find HM Revenue and Customs webinars, videos and email updates.
Business support service
If you need start-up advice and are not sure where to go, email the business support team at economy@swindon.gov.uk.
A member of the team will be happy to help.