Shirty, Regardless of what you hear anywhere, I want to assure you that small businesses stand more chances of doing well especially if you are the patient, hard working type. All you need do is spend less, spend wisely, remain focused and you can only get there. All the best. Afam http://www.lagosestores.com
------------------------

Afam Nnaji
Just Web Services.
http://www.justwebservices.com">href="http://www.justwebservices.com">http://www.justwebservices.com

I think many experiences of Business Link are poor ( according to stats obtained by FSB year on year). Some have very postive experiences of their business advisors. I would say check out the service offered in your area, ask to speak to some of the local start ups who have used the Business Link recommended advisors and then speak to them yourself to see what their experiences are. A lot of start ups get registered with Business Link as advisors in the first one or two years of their business and this I feel is fundamental to the service offered in many areas. In some of the areas of advice many years experience is a quality needed in others fresh ideas are vital. Try it and use your own judgment and also work out what you are seeking advice for. A lot of information can be gained from use of this forum and others so use the best of the free and only pay once you are happy and trust the source.
------------------------
LawHound Limited www.lawhound.co.uk
01244 300413

I've used the Scottish equivelent of business link before about 3 years ago when I trying to set up a business. The business never went ahead as I decided to take another route but I did find them helpfull in the process. They helped me get funding from The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust and my bank so they can't have been too bad! They certainly didn't try to push me in a certain direction and they were good for providing an independent opinion as well as giving advice on doing my business plan. The main thing that I didn't like very much was the courses they kept on trying to get you to attend. This would be fine but as far as I could see they only wanted you to go because they get extra cash from the government for every person they send. I don't think you will lose out by going to see them. At the end of the day I think it is a bit hit and miss how good your advisor will be. Also, and this depends upon the nature of the business you wish to set up, they don't always have the specialised knowledge for your business. Anyway, i'll stop rambling but good luck with whatever you do!
------------------------
Stephen Murray

Reposted
------------------------
http://www.qualityeye.com
Focus Group Recruitment/ Mystery Shopping Services

There are some "Business Link" type orgs out there that are better eg SENTA in Sheffield. (Linked to Business Link but much much better!)
------------------------
Marketeer
marketeer@lycos.co.uk