Last year, businesses told the government that it was hard to find the right support to unlock their growth potential, and that finding finance can be difficult.

To address this the government has brought the business support offer together on the GREAT Business website. The site, which originally launched in November 2013, provides advice and information for all businesses, including those thinking about starting a business, on the support available from the government. Businesses can browse the pages for help and inspiration, or use the My Business Support tool which enables businesses to answer a few questions to quickly and easily get the support that is most relevant to their individual needs.

And for the 20,000 businesses a year with the ambition, capability and capacity to take the next step on their growth journey, this month sees the launch of the Business Growth Service which brings together a broad range of expertise in one place. A personal account manager will agree a tailored package of support which can help businesses access the right finance, develop business plans and new products, build leadership and management skills, protect their intellectual property, streamline their manufacturing processes and break into new markets.

Business can also speak to an advisor for FREE. The Business Support Helpline (Tel: 0300 456 3565 Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 6.00pm) offers advice and guidance for new and existing businesses. It has information on national and local schemes as well as grants and loans to help businesses start and grow.

A team of specialist advisors provide a more in-depth, personalised service for complex business issues. Businesses can choose a telephone appointment time convenient for them and get up to 60 minutes of free, expert advice.

The Business Support Helpline has been expanded and enhanced to deliver and raise awareness of government support through social media channels and provide an open access to all national and local information about business support by all advisers.

This is accessible via:

Webchat: https://businesssupport.live-chat-help.com/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/BusinessisGREATBritain
Twitter: https://twitter.com/businessGov