Starting a Business

Are you an entrepreneur?

Starting a new company could be the most rewarding and exciting time of your life. But it could also be the most challenging thing you ever do.

It takes courage to build a new venture when you start with nothing except an idea. You are taking on hard work and unknown risks. But this is how the world's largest businesses all began, and it is the way you could turn your idea into a real business.

There is no blueprint to guarantee success for your venture. Every entrepreneur builds their company in a different way. But you can manage your risks and plan for growth by doing your homework.

That's why it helps to know the key ingredients for success: keen people, solid products, effective marketing and - of course - some 'smart' money.

This is our guide to starting a business. Use this guide to find out more about:

• Finding the right people. The qualities you need to look for.

• Delivering the best products. Plan to win the acceptance of the market.

• Refining your marketing. It's not just about selling.

• Smart money. How venture capital gives you the edge.

• What do you need to grow? Build your resources to match your opportunities.

• What we will be looking for. How venture funds assess new companies.

• Who do you need to help you? The value of independent directors.

• Knowing whether to sell. What's your exit strategy?