About

Are you dreaming of launching your own business or seeking support to grow an existing one?

Build A Business is here to empower small businesses, entrepreneurs, and aspiring founders across all ten Greater Manchester authorities. Whether you’re an artist or a zero-waste shop owner, our tailored support is designed to meet the diverse needs of our business community.

Each library service in Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, and Wigan boast its own dedicated Small Business Enterprise Officer. They are committed to offering a variety of workshops and services, including information
surgeries, digital support for online selling, business planning, and pitching assistance.

Build A Business provides essential help to launch and expand your business, equipping you with the skills and confidence needed for success. Our workshops cover:

Know Your Customers, Get Competitive

Gain insights into the Business & IP Centre Manchester’s extensive collection of business databases to assess market potential and craft a robust business plan.

Intellectual Property – Protecting Your Assets

Learn the fundamentals of Intellectual Property (IP) to safeguard your products, services, website, and brand, ensuring your innovations are protected.

Business Basics

Getting Started: Understand the critical components of running a successful enterprise, including legal structures, business planning, and financial management.

Marketing: The Essentials

Discover strategies to enhance your business’s visibility through customer profiling, social media, and effective marketing plans.

Other Workshops & Events

We offer lots of workshops on other business related topics, as well as the core programme. Plus we hold regular networking sessions too in your area.

Support & Resources

You can schedule a one-on-one appointment with your local Enterprise Officer for personalised support and a comprehensive business information plan by booking here. They will utilise industry-standard resources to research your business and market and guide you to additional specialised assistance.

We also offer resources to help you protect your intellectual property, such as copyright and trademarks, which can significantly enhance your business’s value.
Utilise our dedicated workspace, featuring desks, Wi-Fi, printing facilities, PC access, and a selection of business books. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs at our regular networking events.
Coordinated by a core team at the Business & IP Centre in Manchester Central Library, this initiative benefits from additional resources including online databases, 3D printing, and patent clinics.

Build a Business in GM Libraries is part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and managed by Manchester City Council, reflecting our commitment to fostering a vibrant, innovative business community in Greater Manchester.