Business information and support

Business Support in Preston

Preston is a business friendly city. We are committed to helping our existing businesses and welcoming new businesses and investors, large and small - offering competitive employment costs, affordable and convenient range of accommodation, and a skilled workforce.

Please visit Preston's website - Preston Guild City for more details on everything Preston has to offer.

Setting up a new business

If you are thinking of setting up a business in Preston, looking to expand, or need support with recruitment or training, we can help with the following:

• Signpost you to local business support and funding from partners and agencies
• Free property search – or promote your own property to businesses
• Local economic data
• Online business directory
• Referral to local training providers
• Keep you up to date with events and networking opportunities
• Opportunities to promote your business

Skills and training

The UpSkilling Lancashire project can support your business and staff to increase skills. A member of the project team will visit you to discuss your business plans and objectives.

The project will prepare the business to engage in the provision of a range of apprenticeships for current and future employees.

Helping businesses through difficult times

Help and support is available when your business is facing difficulties.

GOV.UK has information and guidance on how to deal with financial difficulty, such as how to avoid insolvency and what your options and obligations are if you do find yourself in financial difficulty or how to apply to become bankrupt. 

GOV.UK also provide information on grants and government support and what to do if you cannot pay your tax bill on time.

Business debtline help any business which has cash flow or debt problems, providing free practical advice that is designed o help businesses successfully manage their way through financial difficulties.

Trade Unions

In Britain today there are more than 29 million people in paid employment and over 6 million are members of trade unions that are recognised by the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

The TUC website has details on the benefit to employees of union membership and a list of 52 unions that it recognises.

GOV.UK has guidance to employers on the role of trade unions, the benefits of union recognition and how to work effectively with union officials.

ACAS offers free and impartial advice for employers or employees about any employment issue in the workplace.