Every business is unique. Few people setting up in business for the first time or those running an existing business would claim to be an expert in all the disciplines that can be needed during the lifeline of the business. Here are just some of the ways HSBC assists:

Advice and Guidance
Research shows that training, together with information and advice, can contribute to improved business performance. Our Business Support Helpline provides telephone access to independent experts who offer reliable and practical advice on a range of subjects such as employment law and health and safety issues. Start-up customers receive this service free of charge for their first 12 months.

We also work with business support organisations such as Business Link both nationally and locally. As an example, HSBC is participating in the launch of a new initiative provide small firms with easy access to a wide range of business-related training. The training initiative - targeted at start-up customers - provides both online and telephone access to a directory of relevant training courses. You can find out more by visiting www.businesslink.gov.uk/skills2.

Guides
HSBC publishes a free 'Starting Your Own Business Guide' that is available from branches or may be requested over the telephone or from our website.

We also provide a series of free factsheets providing general information on topics such as taxation and marketing. In addition, we offer free business profiles that provide a detailed look at over 350 types of business. Order a factsheet or profile.

Young Enterprise
HSBC has supported the education charity, Young Enterprise, for 22 years. It provides business education to students from primary to undergraduate level, including hands-on learning.

Programmes range from teaching 4-11 year olds about money to enabling 15-19 year olds to set up and run their own company. Hands-on learning gives youngsters a glimpse of the world of business and equips students with useful managerial skills.

Kingston University
The Small Business Research Centre at Kingston has an international reputation for its work and has developed an extensive portfolio of research and consultancy. The strength of the Centre is its reputation for the use of rigorous qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches to investigating research issues. HSBC has provided substantial long-term external support for its research through sponsorship of the Centre's Director and a full-time post-doctoral Research Fellowship.

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