All businesses have access to an extensive pool of knowledge - whether this is their understanding of customers' needs and the business environment or the skills and experience of staff.

The way a business gathers, shares and exploits this knowledge can be central to its ability to develop successfully. This doesn't just apply to huge multinational companies. Knowledge management can benefit everyone from a local newsstand to a manufacturing firm.

There may be times when you could benefit from some specialist advice for your business. The following organisations offer tailored support and information aimed at specific business sectors.

Fashion

The British Fashion Council and it’s ‘Designer Fact File’ provides a wealth of information online for fashion businesses to start and grow.  

Manufacturing

The Manufacturing Growth Programme is a European Regional Development Fund programme providing advice and funding to manufacturers in the West Midlands, Yorkshire and Humber and parts of the East Midlands, South East and East of England.  

Social Enterprise 

Inspire2Enterprise provides social enterprise support, information and advice service, which is free to access by phone, e-mail or online.

School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) provides social enterprise training courses, including free introductory workshops, at various locations across the UK. 

UnLtd provides support for social enterprises across the UK, running award schemes that offer practical support as well as funding. 

Food

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is a government department working to protect public health and ensure the food we access is safe. Their website provides detailed guidance for those starting and running a food business. 

Arts and Culture

The Arts Council offers advice and funding for businesses in the creative cultural sector. Their website also offers a directory of support for you to search.   

These are just a few of the organisations that can provide specialist information and support. For further details chat live with a business advisor.