What can StartUp Britain do for your company?

What is StartUp Britain?

You might have read about StartUp Britain in the press recently and wondered what all the fuss was about. The project was launched just a few weeks ago at Microsoft UK headquarters in London. It has backing from the government but it’s not a government scheme, and there are definitely no direct grants or funding on offer for companies. And despite its name, it isn’t just aimed at directors and entrepreneurs starting new companies, it’s also intended for existing businesses who want to improve their fortunes. It’s a web-based resource but it has links to established businesses that are offering practical help and financial incentives.

What’s on offer?

The website (http://www.startupbritain.org) is actually easy on the eye, despite the beaming smile from Sir Richard Branson that greets you. You can select from the two main tabs: either “starting” or “growing” your company. The relevant resources then appear on screen: links to information and advice on the left and a stack of company logos on the right. If you guide the cursor over these a pop-up message gives you brief details of discounts etc. that you can take advantage of. It’s a bit like one of the many discount apps you can get for your smartphone. Currently, the StartUp Britain website offers one month’s free line rental from O2.

Are the offers worthwhile?

We’ve looked at the 33 offers and most don’t appear to be unique to StartUp Britain; you could probably access these direct from the company concerned. However Microsoft has a dedicated webpage for StartUp Britain users and, apart from free trials for some of their business software, which we’re fairly sure are open to anyone, they will be giving free training to 5,000 companies on how to use technology to manage and improve their business. No doubt the ulterior motive is that they hope to flog you some of their software but it’s your choice whether you buy it or not.

Tip. If you’re interested in the free IT training, you will have to check the website regularly as dates and times haven’t yet been announced. We expect the places to be snapped up quickly so you’ll have to be quick off the mark to register.

Is the advice worthwhile?

Currently, the advice on the StartUp Britain site is mainly via third party websites. It’s rather frustrating: you click on one of the links which interests you and you’re taken off to another company’s webpage where you can usually, but not always, find the information you’re expecting. Hopefully, in time, the website will develop content of its own, even if it is other companies which provide this.

A good resource for directors?

In our view, the strength of the StartUp Britain project at this time is the access to discounts and offers. These cover a diverse range of products and services and it’s expected that more will be added. Cost-cutting opportunities for your company shouldn’t be ignored and the StartUp Britain website puts many of these in one place making them easy for you to find. It’s worth having a look but don’t expect miracles.