nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Cigarette vending machines to be banned

2012-01-25T08:21:00.003Z

The sale of tobacco products from vending machines in Northern Ireland will be banned from 1 March 2012.

The Health Minister, Edwin Poots has announced regulations to ban the sale of tobacco products from vending machines in Northern Ireland from 1 March 2012. The Northern Ireland Assembly has agreed to the regulations and the measure has been brought in to drive down the number of children and young people who smoke.

We have links to guidance to help businesses on ending tobacco sales from vending machines on their premises.

Click here to read more about the ban on the sales of tobacco products from vending machines on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Business in the Community's Awards for Excellence

2012-01-25T08:17:00.003Z

Small businesses are called on to enter awards and have their efforts recognised.

Small businesses which excel at corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been called on to enter the 2012 Business in the Community Awards for Excellence and have their efforts recognised.

Now in their fifteenth year, the awards are widely acknowledged as one of the most respected endorsements of responsible business.

Click here to read more about the Business in the Community Awards on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Copyright consultation event

2012-01-24T08:22:00.002Z

Event provides local businesses with the opportunity to have their say on plans to modernise the copyright system.

In December 2011 the government announced proposals to modernise the copyright system and remove unnecessary barriers to growth. The government is now consulting on these proposals.

The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) are inviting local businesses to hear about the government's plans to tackle some of the issues with copyright and to ask questions and comment. The event takes place on Tuesday 7 February 2012 from 10.00 to 12.30 at Invest Northern Ireland Headquarters in Belfast.

The event is free to attend.

Click here to read more about the copyright consultation event on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Workshops to help you export

2012-01-21T08:28:00.000Z

New series of Export Skills and Knowledge workshops set to begin.

Invest Northern Ireland's export workshops are designed to help companies sell and compete successfully in export markets.

The series starts with the Introduction to Tendering workshop on Wednesday 1 February 2012 in the Ramada Hotel, Belfast. This workshop is for companies who have limited experience of tendering and will offer a step by step guide to the tendering process.

The workshops will allow inexperienced exporters to develop and strengthen their exporting skills and enable more experienced exporters to refresh their knowledge and obtain an update on current best practice.

Click here to read more about the workshops to help you export on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

How to improve and grow your business

2012-01-20T08:27:00.002Z

Develop your business and help it to grow and prosper.

Once you have been trading for a while, you will reach a stage where you may think about trying to grow your business.

nibusinessinfo.co.uk has developed some top tips that may help to put your business on the path to prosperity.

Click here to read more about how to improve and grow your business on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Register now to send your tax return on time

2012-01-18T09:22:00.004Z

If you're filing online for the first time, make sure to register with HMRC by 21 January.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is reminding first-time Self Assessment filers that they need to register for online filing by the end of this week, or they may not be able to send their tax return on time.

Tax returns for 2010/11 must be sent online to HMRC by 31 January but, if you're filing online for the first time, you need to register by Saturday 21 January, to allow enough time for an account Activation Code to be posted to you.

Click here to read more about registering for Self Assessment on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Business opportunities in global markets

2012-01-18T09:13:00.003Z

Significant opportunities are available for Northern Ireland businesses.

Invest Northern Ireland is committed to assisting local businesses win contracts in global markets which are continuing to show economic growth and will offer significant business opportunities for exporters.

New exports worth around £9 million were confirmed by local businesses on the recent Invest Northern Ireland trade mission to Kurdistan, now among the fastest growing markets in the Middle East.

Click here to read more about the business opportunities in global markets on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Redundancy help for businesses and individuals

2012-01-14T09:05:00.001Z

Free advice service available to employers and employees affected by redundancies.

Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry, reiterated his Department's commitment to assist businesses and individuals affected by redundancy.

The Department for Employment and Learning's (DEL) Redundancy Advice Service works in partnership with the Social Security Agency, Further Education Colleges, HMRC and other agencies to provide advice on alternative job opportunities and access to training courses, as well as information on a range of other issues such as benefits and taxation.

CLick here to read more about the redundancy help for businesses and individuals on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Focus on people management to increase morale

2012-01-12T14:16:00.003Z

Small businesses should take steps to engage with staff and listen to their ideas.

Acas has recommended that small businesses must take extra steps to avoid workplace disputes and increase staff morale this year, warning that 2012 will be challenging for employers.

Click here to read more about the focus on people management to increase morale on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Warning over fake tax rebate emails

2012-01-12T14:12:00.002Z

HMRC warns taxpayers of scam tax rebate emails as the Self Assessment deadline approaches.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is warning taxpayers not to fall victim to 'phishing' emails sent out by fraudsters in the run-up to the self-assessment deadline of 31 January.

The email tells the recipient they are due a tax rebate, and provides a link to a clone of HMRC's website where the recipient is asked to give their credit card or bank details. Fraudsters then try to take money from the account using the details provided. Victims risk having their bank accounts emptied and their personal details sold on to other organised criminal gangs.

Click here to read more about the HMRC warning over fake tax rebate emails on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Free business and retail events in Belfast

2012-01-11T09:51:00.003Z

Businesses and retailers to benefit from events organised by Belfast City Council.

A number of free business events organised by Belfast City Council for small businesses and retailers will take place in Belfast between January and March 2012.

Local retailers will benefit from a number of free retail masterclasses which will run until March. Topics include branding for retailers, trading online and the benefits of loyalty schemes and promotions.

Click here to read more about the free business and retail events in Belfast on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Free workplace advice and assistance

2012-01-11T09:46:00.003Z

Free seminars to assist Northern Ireland employers with complex employment and human resource issues.

In an increasingly demanding world of work, it can be difficult – despite all good intentions – to find the time or, indeed, the resources, to attend seminars and workshops. The Labour Relations Agency (LRA) recognise the pressures faced by today's employers and employees.

The LRA's seminar programme throughout January, February and March 2012 will provide you with the information and support you may need to tackle complex employment and human resource issues in your workplace. Each seminar lasts no more than two and a half hours. The seminars are free to attend and will be held in either Belfast or Londonderry.

Click here to read more about the LRA employment seminars on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Search for apprentice of the year begins

2012-01-11T09:41:00.003Z

Nominations are now open for the Apprentice of the Year Awards 2012 competition.

The competition, now in its eleventh year, aims to recognise the talent, excellence and determination of local apprentices, as well as those employers and training suppliers involved in apprenticeship training in Northern Ireland.

There are four award categories in the 2012 competition:

Apprentice of the Year

Most Promising 1st Year Award

Recognition Award

Innovation in Partnership Award (for Employers and Training Suppliers)

Click here to read more about the Apprentice of the Year Awards on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Marketing resolutions for the year ahead

2012-01-07T09:20:00.000Z

Some changes to your marketing plans could make a real difference to your business.

The start of a new year is a good time to think about the marketing of your business and how it can be developed or improved. The changes that you make could have a positive impact on your business and help it to grow and become more profitable.

The prospect of marketing may be daunting for small business owners but it's really just about making sure that what you have to sell matches the needs of customers and then communicating the benefits to them.

Click here to read more about how you can improve your businesses marketing efforts on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

HMRC's key business messages

2012-01-06T12:22:00.003Z

HM Revenue & Customs' January key messages for Northern Ireland businesses.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have published their key business messages for January 2012. The messages include updates in the past month on the HMRC and nibusinessinfo.co.uk websites.

Key messages
HMRC's key messages for January include:

31 January tax return deadline reminder

PAYE payment booklets for 2012-13

Real Time Information for employers

Faster Payments Service

VAT Online for all businesses from April 2012

Click here to read more about HMRC's key business messages on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Workplace pension reform consultation

2012-01-06T12:19:00.003Z

Have your say on pension transfers and small pension pots.

With the pension landscape undergoing a transformation, a debate is needed on how best to address the future workplace pension challenges.

The challenges include ensuring that the money saved into a pension stays in a pension as people move jobs, and that small pension pots are easily transferable.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have published a consultation paper seeking views on the workplace pension reform.

Click here to read more about the workplace pension reform consultation on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Have your say on review of criminal records regime

2012-01-06T12:14:00.003Z

Views sought on recommendations for improving the management and disclosure of criminal records.

The recommendations follow a review of the criminal records regime by Sunita Mason, which the Justice Minister David Ford initiated in March 2011.

The review looked at whether AccessNI's processes for issuing criminal record disclosures could be more proportionate and efficient, while at the same time maintaining the rigorous checking process.

Click here to read more about the review of the criminal records regime on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Top recruitment tips for employers in 2012

2012-01-05T09:54:00.003Z

Your business will need the right staff on board in order to thrive.

2012 is set to be a challenging year for small businesses and you'll need the right staff on board in order to thrive. If you're planning on hiring, these top tips will help you to find the best employees for your business.

Click here to read more about top recruitment tips for employers in 2012 on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Help and advice for employers and self-employed

2012-01-05T09:49:00.003Z

Free HMRC workshops in Northern Ireland throughout January.

Today's businesses are facing tough times and the most successful know when to make use of the available help. That help is at hand for businesses during January when HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) continues to bring its programme of free workshops to Belfast and Craigavon.

The workshops are aimed at employers, sole traders and those in partnerships and they will range from how to complete the Self Assessment return to how to pay Statutory Sick Pay.

Click here to read more about the help and advice for employers and self-employed on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Self Assessment deadline fast approaching

2012-01-04T10:09:00.003Z

Avoid late filing penalties by ensuring you file your Self Assessment tax return by Tuesday 31 January 2012.

Your Self Assessment tax return must be filed online with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) by midnight on 31 January. If your online tax return is late, you'll have to pay a penalty. This applies even if you have no tax to pay or if you pay all the tax you owe on time.

To avoid facing a hefty penalty for late returns you should ensure you file ahead of the 31 January 2012 deadline.

Click here to read more about filing your tax return by 31 January on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Focus on Finance seminars

2012-01-04T10:05:00.003Z

Events to help local businesses get to grips with financial challenges.

Times are tough and one of the biggest challenges facing local businesses is how to manage their finance and cashflow. Invest Northern Ireland can help.

As part of the Boosting Business campaign, Invest Northern Ireland are holding a series of Focus on Finance workshops across Northern Ireland aimed at helping your business defy the economic downturn.

Click here to read more about the Focus on Finance seminars on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Construction employer information events

2012-01-04T09:57:00.003Z

Free events to keep local construction businesses updated on products, services and other funded training initiatives.

The CITB-ConstructionSkills NI are hosting a number of free construction employer information events in Northern Ireland throughout 2012.

Upcoming events in January 2012
18 January - Bank House Hotel, Dungannon
25 January - Burrendale Hotel, Newcastle
31 January - The Terrace Hotel, Magherafelt

Click here to read more about the construction employer information events on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Call for evidence on the effectiveness of TUPE

2011-12-22T10:29:00.003Z

Views sought on the regulations governing business transfers and service provision changes.

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills in Great Britain has announced a call for evidence on the effectiveness of Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006.

The regulations, known as TUPE, protect employees' rights during business restructuring, such as business transfers or service provision changes.

Some provisions of the TUPE regulations apply on a UK-wide basis. The Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) is therefore issuing the call for evidence in Northern Ireland, and requesting views from interested parties on the TUPE Regulations and on the related Service Provision Change (Protection of Employment) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2006.

Click here to read more about the TUPE public consultation on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

New Intellectual Property Starter Pack launched

2011-12-21T10:24:00.000Z

The Intellectual Property Starter Pack is aimed at helping local companies understand the intellectual property they own.

The Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has launched the Intellectual Property Starter Pack which was developed by Invest Northern Ireland as part of its wider Boosting Business initiative. The pack includes guides to the main types of intellectual property including patents, trademarks, copyright and design registration. Non Disclosure Agreements and licensing are also explained.

Click here to read more about the Intellectual Property Starter Pack on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Christmas energy saving tips for businesses

2011-12-20T08:47:00.003Z

How to reduce your gas and electricity bills during the holidays.

Christmas is an expensive time for everyone, but energy bills over the festive period can hit the workplace too. The Carbon Trust estimates that UK businesses lose around £9 million over the festive period by failing to turn lights and equipment off.

However, there are steps that businesses can take to reduce these bills during the holidays.

Click here to read more about how to reduce your gas and electricity bills during the holidays

Support for new food and craft businesses

2011-12-16T12:30:00.003Z

A new initiative to help small businesses bring their products to the marketplace.

Belfast City Council's new 'Market Start Up' programme is designed to provide support to people who wish to start up food or craft businesses and try out their products through trading at the city's historic St George's Market.

The 'Market Start Up' programme is open to residents of the Belfast City Council area.

Click here to read more about the support for new food and craft businesses on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Training opportunities for the food sector

2011-12-16T12:25:00.002Z

Investment in skills is a key factor in helping to grow the local food industry.

The Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle O'Neill has encouraged Northern Ireland's food businesses to help grow the industry through the investment in skills.

The College of Food, Agriculture and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) Loughry Campus in Cookstown has launched a range of new training courses aimed at local food businesses. CAFRE have outlined the range of training courses in a new training brochure.

Click here to read more about the training opportunities for the food sector on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Fit notes prompt return-to-work conversations

2011-12-16T12:11:00.003Z

Research shows employers are not yet convinced by fit notes' impact on cutting sickness absence levels.

Employers remain unconvinced about the impact the fit note can have in cutting sickness absence levels, according to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development's (CIPD) absence management survey.

Just under a third of organisations surveyed said that the fit note, which replaced the 'sick note' in April 2010, helps line managers to deal with absence more effectively, even though the majority has used it.

Click here to read more about fit notes on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

HMRC targets employer data quality

2011-12-16T12:06:00.002Z

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is offering help to employers to improve their PAYE information.

Targeted Employer Support (TES) will be rolled out to at least 1,000 employers identified by HMRC as having the most issues with data quality.

TES includes tailored face-to-face visits which will enable HMRC and employers to work together to address data quality problems.

Click here to read more about HMRC targeting employer data quality

Consultation on changes to asbestos regulations

2011-12-16T12:02:00.002Z

Views needed on changing the rules on protection of workers from risk of exposure to asbestos.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has released a consultation setting out its proposals to introduce revised Control of Asbestos Regulations.

Consultation is needed to implement the changes required to comply with the European Commission's reasoned opinion on the UK Government's transposition of Directive 83/477/EEC as amended by 2003/18/EC on the protection of workers from the risks of exposure to asbestos at work.

Click here to read more about the consultation on changes to asbestos regulations on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Marketing tips for small businesses

2011-12-15T10:04:00.003Z

Effectively promote your business to create happy customers and encourage sales.

Running a profitable business requires motivation, organisation, industry knowledge and skills and experience. However, even if you have all of these attributes, without effective marketing, nobody will know your business exists.

nibusinessinfo.co.uk has put together some guidance that will help your business boost sales through effective marketing.

Click here to read marketing tips for small businesses on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

VAT changes to salary sacrifice arrangements

2011-12-15T10:00:00.003Z

New HM Revenue & Customs guidance to be implemented from 1 January 2012.

Following a ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ), HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued new guidance on the way in which employers should treat VAT for salary sacrifice arrangements from 1 January 2012. If you run a salary sacrifice scheme such as the Cycle to Work or childcare vouchers, find out how the ruling will affect your business.

The impact of this decision is that output VAT must be declared on VAT-able goods or services that are provided to employees in return for a deduction in salary or under a formal 'salary sacrifice' arrangement.

Click here to read more about the VAT changes to salary sacrifice arrangments on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Survey suggests support for carrier bag levy

2011-12-15T09:55:00.003Z

Businesses and consumers show significant support for the proposed levy on carrier bags.

Over 200 businesses and 1,000 consumers were recently surveyed to gauge baseline levels of awareness and attitudes towards the proposals to introduce the carrier bag levy.

The survey focused on businesses which could potentially be affected by the proposed levy, such as supermarkets, fast food outlets or other retailers, and their customers.

In response to the survey, many businesses and 66 per cent of consumers said they would welcome such a levy.

Click here to read more about the proposed carrier bag levy on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Have your say on a revised waste management code

2011-12-15T09:51:00.003Z

Views sought from those who import, produce, collect, treat or dispose of controlled waste.

The Department of the Environment (DoE) has published a consultation paper seeking views on a revised Waste Management, the Duty of Care, A Code of Practice for Northern Ireland.

The purpose of the code is to provide practical guidance for everyone subject to the Duty of Care. It applies to anyone who imports, produces, collects, carries, keeps, treats or disposes of controlled waste, or who has control of such waste as a broker or dealer.

Click here to read more about the revised waste management code on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Deadline for the Proof of Concept Standard Grant

2011-12-13T08:26:00.000Z

The Invest Growth Proof of Concept Standard Grant deadline of 9 January 2012 is fast approaching.

The Invest Growth Proof of Concept Fund enables individuals, start-ups, micro-enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to establish the commercial potential of a concept resulting from in-house research and ideas.

The closing date for the next round of Proof of Concept Standard Grants is Monday 9 January 2012.

Click here to read more about the Invest Growth Proof of Concept Standard Grant on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Tax declaration for private tutors and coaches

2011-12-13T08:25:00.003Z

Private tutors and coaches have less than a month left to inform HM Revenue & Customs about any tax that they owe.

Private tutors and coaches were offered a special tax plan – the Tax Catch Up Plan – by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in October 2011. Registering with HMRC by 6 January 2012 ensures tutors and coaches don't lose out on the best terms to disclose and pay what is owed.

After 6 January 2012, using information pulled together from different sources, HMRC will investigate those who have chosen not to come forward.

Click here to read more about the tax declaration for private tutors and coaches on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

How to ask your customers for feedback

2011-12-10T08:58:00.000Z

Customer feedback is essential so your business can grow and become more profitable.

Customer feedback about your business can sometimes be difficult to hear but it is essential if your business is to adapt, grow and become more profitable.

Honest feedback is exactly what your business needs if you are to listen, learn and adapt your business to your customers' needs, and ultimately become more profitable. There are a number of key benefits of customer feedback.

Click here to read more about how to ask your customers for feedback on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Registration reminder for online tax returns

2011-12-09T08:48:00.003Z

Ensure you allow plenty of time to register ahead of the 31 January deadline if you are filing online tax returns.

Every year, around 238,000 people file a Self Assessment return in Northern Ireland. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is reminding anyone sending their tax return online for the first time to get registered now, in good time before the 31 January 2012 filing deadline.

It's important you register as early as possible, because it can take up to 10 days to receive your Activation Code. HMRC is therefore urging people to register in December, to avoid a last-minute rush in January.

Click here to read more about filing online tax returns on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Define your business's unique selling proposition

2011-12-08T10:22:00.003Z

Your unique selling proposition sets you apart from your competitors.

It is important that you know what the unique selling proposition (USP) is for your business and the products or services you sell, as this is what sets you apart from your competitors.

A USP should focus on the main benefit to the customer of buying your products or using your services. Popular examples include fast or free delivery, good customer service and price. Whatever you decide, it must help your customer in some way and it must be unique.

Click here to read more about defining your business's unique selling proposition on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Christmas party advice for employers

2011-12-08T10:19:00.002Z

How to avoid potential pitfalls of 'staff dos' this Christmas season.

It's that time of the year again and the perils of office parties are back in the spotlight.

With food, drink and general merriment galore, things can easily go wrong at Christmas parties. Unfortunately, employers are usually left to pick up the pieces, and perhaps face a legal claim, a workplace injury, or inappropriate staff behaviour warranting some form of disciplinary measure.

Click here to read more about Christmas party advice for employers on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

April VAT alert for businesses

2011-12-08T10:15:00.002Z

From 1 April 2012, all VAT-registered businesses must send their VAT returns online and pay their VAT electronically.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued an alert to VAT-registered businesses across the UK about important changes that come into effect this spring.

Currently, only newly-registered businesses, and those with turnovers of more than £100,000, have to file and pay their VAT online. However, from 1 April 2012 all VAT-registered businesses will have to file and pay their VAT electronically.

Click here to read more about the April VAT alert for businesses on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

HMRC's key business messages

2011-12-07T08:29:00.005Z

HM Revenue & Customs' December key messages for Northern Ireland businesses.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have published their key business messages for December 2011. The messages include updates in the past month on the HMRC and nibusinessinfo.co.uk websites.

HMRC's key messages for December include:

Autumn Statement update

My New Business section on nibusinessinfo.co.uk to help new start up businesses

HMRC on YouTube

Budgeting for your tax and Class 4 National Insurance bills

Click here to read more about HMRC's key messages for December 2011 on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Use social networks to boost your business

2011-12-06T09:43:00.004Z

If your business doesn't have a social media presence, isn't it about time it did?

Social networks provide a cost-effective way for small businesses to attract the kind of audience and nurture the same level of loyalty that used to be the realm of only large multi-national brands.

The three best known social networks are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. With approximately 30 million people in the UK on Facebook alone, these are marketing channels that cannot be ignored.

Click here to read more about using social networks to boost your business on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

New rights for agency workers introduced

2011-12-06T09:37:00.003Z

New legislation providing equal treatment for agency workers came into operation in Northern Ireland.

The Agency Workers Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011 puts in place new rights which will allow agency workers to have the same basic working and employment conditions that they would be entitled to if they had been employed directly by the hirer.

The new rights apply after the agency worker has completed 12 weeks in the same job with the same hirer. In addition, agency workers will also be entitled to equal access to on-site facilities and employment vacancies from day one of any new assignment.

Click here to read more about the new rights for agency workers on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

2012 Awards for Excellence open for entries

2011-12-06T09:32:00.003Z

Enter the awards to receive recognition for leadership in responsible business practices.

The national Awards for Excellence, which have been set up by Business in the Community (BITC) to recognise and celebrate inspirational responsible business programmes, are now open for entries.

The deadline for the majority of categories is 5 March 2012. Deadlines for the Environmental Leadership and Responsible Business of the Year categories will be confirmed at a later date.

Click here to read more about the 2012 Awards for Excellence on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Improve your environmental management

2011-12-06T09:28:00.003Z

Make the most of your resources by getting involved in ARENA Network's newly launched Sustainability meets Efficiency programme.

Funded by the Department of the Environment's Rethink Waste Campaign, this unique programme will engage businesses throughout Northern Ireland to become more sustainable by using innovative and proven tools of engagement to develop their environmental management.

The ARENA Network programme 'Sustainability meets Efficiency', run by Business in the Community (BITC), aims to help SMEs prevent, reduce, reuse and recycle waste.

Click here to read more about improving your environmental performance on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

VAT cheats have one month to declare

2011-12-03T09:06:00.000Z

Businesses trading above the VAT registration threshold of £73,000 but haven't registered for VAT must do so by 31 December 2011.

VAT rule-breakers have until 31 December 2011 to complete the VAT registration process under a time-limited HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) campaign. In July this year, HMRC launched its VAT Initiative in which rule-breakers were offered a special plan to put right their tax affairs. The chance to participate, and be guaranteed the conditions contained in the plan, ended on 30 September.

Under the terms of the VAT Initiative, those who have notified their intention to take part must register for VAT by 31 December 2011.

Click here to read more about VAT registration on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Growth Loan Fund creates employment opportunities

2011-12-03T08:55:00.000Z

New Growth Loan Fund poised to protect and create employment.

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has approved the establishment of a new £50 million Growth Loan Fund. The Fund aims to generate £150 million sales growth per annum in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) safeguarding and creating over 2,000 jobs over a 10 year period.

Part of Invest Northern Ireland's wider 'Access to Capital' strategy initiative, it will address a gap in the market for access to finance by complementing existing sources, including bank finance, venture capital and private equity finance.

Click here to read more about the Growth Loan Fund on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Beat the rush for online tax returns

2011-12-01T12:29:00.003Z

Avoid a post Christmas rush - prepare ahead to ensure you file your tax return before the 31 January deadline.

To avoid New Year stresses ensure you prepare now for filing your Self Assessment tax return online ahead of the 31 January 2012 deadline.

If you miss the deadline of 31 January for Self Assessment tax returns, the longer you delay, the more you'll have to pay. Penalties apply even if you have no tax to pay or have paid the tax you owe.

Click here to read more about Self Assessment online filing on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Auto-enrolment delayed for small businesses

2011-12-01T12:25:00.003Z

Employers with fewer than 50 staff get extra time to start auto-enrolling employees into pensions.

Auto-enrolment, which comes into force from October 2012 for the largest businesses, was due to be introduced on a staged basis in accordance with company size.

The smallest businesses, with fewer than 50 staff, were originally given a staging date of April 2014, when the new pension duties would apply to them. However, the revised timetable will see the smallest employers given until May 2015 to comply with the new legislations.

Click here to read more about the auto-enrolment delayed for small businesses on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Autumn Statement 2011

2011-12-01T12:22:00.003Z

Find out how the Chancellor's Autumn Statement could affect your business.

The Chancellor delivered his Autumn Statement on 29 November 2011. We have created an information page outlining the key aspects for Northern Ireland businesses.

Click here to read more about the Autumn Statement on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Innovation support for agri-food sector

2011-12-01T12:16:00.003Z

List of the main innovation support schemes available to agri-food businesses in Northern Ireland.

There is a large amount of support available for the agri-food sector in Northern Ireland. It ranges from research and development (R&D) grants and venture capital funds, to knowledge transfer and CE marking projects, as well as wide ranging business advice and information services.

Click here to read more about the innovation support for the agri-food sector on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Wheel clamping on private land - have your say

2011-11-29T09:00:00.002Z

Review into vehicle immobilisation (wheel clamping) on private land.

The Department of Justice has commissioned a survey into the prevalence of wheel clamping on private land in Northern Ireland. The survey is part of wider research into the practice. In 2012, it is planned that there will be a consultation on whether the ban should be extended to Northern Ireland.

This survey is designed to provide an insight into how often wheel clamping on private land happens, where it has been occurring and also the potential penalties that have arisen as a result of it.

Click here to read more about the wheel clamping survey on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Elevate your business to a new level

2011-11-26T08:53:00.000Z

New sales development programme helps small businesses fast-track their cross-border selling.

InterTradeIreland have launched a new sales development programme, Elevate, which will help small business across Ireland to generate greater sales opportunities through first time cross-border exports.

The programme was developed in response to research carried out by InterTradeIreland which revealed that small businesses which are not exporting are hit hardest by the recession. Eligible companies will receive £10,000 / €11,000 worth of advice and assistance from a chosen industry or trade/marketing expert.

Click here to read more about how to elevate your business to a new level on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

R&D ideas bank opens to local businesses

2011-11-26T08:48:00.000Z

The University of Ulster offers emerging technologies for licensing to businesses - for just £1.

The small sum will give businesses time-limited open access to the wealth of research and development work carried out in the University.

With this access, businesses will be able to identify and evaluate innovation opportunities and emerging technologies that could help them grow. The approach, entitled OpenUlster, has been developed by the University's Office of Innovation.

Click here to read more about the OpenUlster R&D ideas bank on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Cost-effective ways to retain your staff

2011-11-24T13:19:00.004Z

When you consider that the average cost of filling a vacancy in the UK is £4,000, it makes more financial sense to try to keep the employees you have, rather than constantly letting them go and replacing them.

This can sometimes be easier said than done, so we have put together a number of hints and tips that may help you keep hold of your most valuable staff without breaking the bank.

To control staff turnover and ensure you maintain your best human resources, you should:

engage your staff
let them know you're interested
operate an open door policy
invest in their skills
be flexible
recognise good work
create a positive atmosphere

Click here to read more about the cost-effective ways to retain your staff on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Financial assistance for tourism business

2011-11-22T10:57:00.004Z

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board launched a new financial assistance scheme to help with capital developments in the tourism industry.

The Tourism Development Scheme 2011-2013 aims to help develop and improve the visitor offering in Northern Ireland, and is open to businesses which can demonstrate that they will increase visitor numbers, ultimately contributing to the Northern Ireland economy.

The scheme is focused on the themes of culture and heritage, food, music and gardens, large scale conferences and events infrastructure.

The projects which will receive support from this fund will be located within nine key tourism destination areas across Northern Ireland.

Click here to read more about the Tourism Development Scheme on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Turn website visitors into customers

2011-11-22T10:30:00.005Z

With the increasing trend of online shopping, more and more business owners are discovering the benefits of selling online, such as convenience and profitability.

However, not every ecommerce website is finding it easy to attract visitors and convert them into paying customers.

To maximise your chances of success, you should aim to:

make your site user friendly
offer visitors various ways to find information
keep your sales pages brief
offer alternative ways to buy
be contactable
allay security fears
present professional image
measure your success

Click here to find more tips for turning website visitors into customers on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Prepare your business for winter

2011-11-17T10:57:00.000Z

Guidance to ensure your business continues to operate if bad weather hits this winter.

Severe winter weather that brings snow and ice can present a multitude of challenges to maintaining business as usual. It can:

cause heating and power failures

risk damage to your property and stock

slow down or prevent deliveries

interfere with your supply chains

strand your employees and customers at home

leave your premises, both office and storage facilities, unusable

Addressing the effects of severe weather before it strikes can ensure your business continues to operate at its maximum efficiency. What steps should you consider making to prepare for the winter's worst?

Click here to read more about preparing your business for winter on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Are you ready for the Agency Workers Regulations?

2011-11-17T10:51:00.000Z

Employers have until 5 December 2011 to prepare for the new laws on employment of agency workers.

Unlike the rest of the UK which saw the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR) come into force on 1 October, the regulations aren't due to come into force in Northern Ireland until 5 December 2011.

The regulations will entitle agency workers to the same basic working and employment conditions as those workers in the equivalent permanent roles.

Click here to read more about the Agency Workers Regulations on nibsuinessinfo.co.uk

Protect your intellectual property

2011-11-17T08:24:00.003Z

Event to highlight business benefits of intellectual property search engine when developing new products.

Intellectual property rights are becoming increasingly important to Northern Ireland businesses. Invest Northern Ireland, in conjunction with the European Patent Office (EPO), are holding two workshops in this specialist area. The EPO's search engine Espacenet is an essential business tool when developing new products and the database holds more than 50 million patent documents from around the world.

The workshops take place on 6 and 7 December 2011 from 09.00 to 17.00 at Invest Northern Ireland HQ in Belfast.

Click here to read more about the Espacenet event on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Financial tips to survive in tough times

2011-11-16T14:27:00.002Z

Discover the key areas your business needs to address in order to thrive.

Economic doom and gloom is never far from the headlines at the moment, knocking both consumer and business confidence, but there are steps you can take now to protect your business from the possibility of a downturn in the future.

Click here to read more about the financial tps to survive on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Virtual ICT Week

2011-11-16T08:17:00.003Z

A range of online events to explain the digital future of Northern Ireland from 28 November to 2 December 2011.

Digital NI 2020 Virtual ICT Week runs from Monday 28 November to Friday 02 December 2011. As part of Virtual ICT Week a series of lunchtime webinars will take place on a range of issues that impact Northern Ireland businesses.

The events take place online so you can watch from the convenience of your own computer. All events take place at lunchtime from 13.00 to 14.00.

Click here to read more about the Virtual ICT Week on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Campaign to support local businesses

2011-11-14T11:28:00.003Z

Invest Northern Ireland launches a new campaign aimed at boosting and supporting local businesses.

The Boosting Business campaign has been developed by Invest Northern Ireland in direct response to the continuing impact of the economic downturn. Businesses, large and small, throughout Northern Ireland face a wide range of challenges on a daily basis.

Invest Northern Ireland can offer a comprehensive range of support measures. Many of these are new, whilst some others already available to existing customers have had their eligibility criteria broadened to make them available to businesses that are not currently Invest Northern Ireland customers.

Click here to read more about the Boosting Business support on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Focus on Finance series

2011-11-12T11:22:00.000Z

Gain a greater understanding of current financial issues facing businesses.

Invest Northern Ireland's Focus on Finance series will be held in six locations across Northern Ireland and will provide advice and guidance on cashflow planning and management, business planning and cost control, and raising finance.

This series is designed to offer smaller businesses the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the key financial issues facing them at this time and each will provide advice and practical steps to help improve cashflow, manage payments and suppliers, recover debt and avoid insolvency, access funding for new projects and plan for the future.

Click here to read more about the Focus on Finance events on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Developing ideas for your social enterprise

2011-11-10T08:30:00.004Z

Event to help you develop your idea in to a winning social business.

'Opportunity Knocks – Developing Ideas for your Social Enterprise' is a free Belfast City Council workshop aimed at helping individuals develop a social enterprise. The workshop will give assistance to budding entrepreneurs on setting up their own social enterprise.

The workshop takes place on Thursday 17 November 2011 from 12.00 to 14.30 at Workwest Social Economy Village in Belfast. The event is free of charge to attend.

Click here to read more about the social enterprise workshop on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Meet the public sector buyers

2011-11-10T08:22:00.004Z

Businesses urged to 'up their game' and seize public procurement opportunities.

InterTradeIreland is holding an all-island Meet the Buyer event which will bring together the main government buyers from across the island, north and south.

The event will provide you with an opportunity to meet with public sector buyers at the Buyer stands, as well as through one-to-one meetings. The event will take place on 24 November 2011 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dundalk and attendance is free of charge.

Click here to read more about the meet the public sector buyer event on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

European Week for Waste Reduction

2011-11-09T12:22:00.003Z

Reduce your waste and save some money.

Would you like to reduce your business waste and save some money? If so, you should take part in this year's European Week for Waste Reduction which runs from 19 – 27 November 2011. Making small changes to processes and behaviours could save your business money in the long run.

The European Week for Waste Reduction aims to promote sustainable waste reduction actions and to highlight the impact of our consumption on the environment and on climate change.

Click here to read more about the European Week for Waste Reduction on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Health and safety in construction industry

2011-11-09T08:45:00.003Z

New resource pack to help construction employers with health and safety management.

Health & Safety Works NI (HSWNI) have launched a new resource pack to help construction employers manage health and safety in their business.

The publication gives guidance across a range of issues, such as:

writing a health and safety policy

carrying out risk assessments

developing method statements

putting together a health and safety plan

The pack also includes worked examples and templates of risk assessments, and record-keeping guidance that will help employers meet their legal responsibilities.

Click here to read more about health and saftey in the construction industry on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

How to create a great business plan

2011-11-08T11:03:00.004Z

Event to help local businesses develop an effective business plan that will enable them to develop and grow.

Belfast City Council have organised an event to help Belfast based businesses look at the importance of their business plan. The event entitled, 'Business Plans – How to Create a Great One' is part of the Belfast Entrepreneur Network (BEN).

The event takes place on Thursday 10 November 2011 from 17.30 at Ten Square Hotel in Belfast. The event is free of charge. Places are strictly limited so you must register for the event.

Click here to read more about the Belfast Entrepreneur Network business plans event on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Make the most of digital opportunities

2011-11-04T08:55:00.002Z

Businesses urged to embrace digital opportunities to compete globally.

A Europe-wide report from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has said that small and medium businesses (SMEs) need to embrace digital opportunities in order to compete globally.

The report shows that many business measures including e-commerce, e-invoicing and cloud computing are not being embraced by SMEs in Northern Ireland.

There is a detailed IT & e-commerce section on nibusinessinfo.co.uk which can help you find out more about the options available to your business.

Click here to read more about making the most of digital opportunities on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Don't send your tax return on paper

2011-11-03T08:45:00.002Z

If you missed the paper deadline, file your tax returns online to avoid penalties.
If you wanted to send in a paper tax return for 2010-11, you've missed the 31 October deadline.

If you send a paper tax return now, you will have to pay a £100 penalty – even if there is no tax to pay or you pay the tax due on time. To avoid the penalty, you must now file your tax return online.

Your online tax return must reach HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) by midnight on Tuesday 31 January 2012.

Click here to read more about filing your tax return online on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Local entrepreneurs can pitch for funding

2011-11-03T08:40:00.003Z

Local high growth businesses are encouraged to pitch for around £50,000 of funding through NISPO Accelerator.

E-Synergy's NISPO Accelerator is now open for applications. Entrepreneurs from across Northern Ireland will have the opportunity to apply to pitch for seed stage funding of around £50,000. Following a successful application companies will be invited to interact with the Invest Growth Fund, private investors and mentors to raise the necessary finance.

The NISPO Accelerator is taking place on 28 and 29 November 2011, with applications closing on 11 November 2011.

Click here to read more about the NISPO Accelerator on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Become an energy-efficient business and save money

2011-11-02T09:52:00.002Z

UK small businesses could save £7.7 billion by becoming more energy efficient.

Just one in five small UK businesses has energy-efficient equipment in the workplace, according to recent research commissioned by a leading energy supplier. The research claims that UK small businesses could collectively save £7.7 billion by becoming more energy efficient.

Introducing small changes in behaviour, such as installing energy-saving equipment, light sensors and smart meters, can have a significant financial impact on businesses' energy bills.

Click here to read more about how your business can become more energy efficient on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

£800,000 research fund to encourage innovation

2011-11-01T10:12:00.000Z

DARD Research Challenge Fund is aimed at businesses in the primary production sector.

This is the second opportunity for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from the primary production sector to get help with research.

This tranche of the Fund is worth £800,000 and is managed by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD). It aims to encourage industry-led consortia to get involved in research projects, by providing grant of up to 50 per cent assistance with research funding.

Click here to read more about the DARD Reserach Challenge Fund on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Funding to help innovate your business

2011-11-01T10:05:00.000Z

Innovation Vouchers November 2011 call now open.

Local businesses can apply for funding of up to £4,000 to access knowledge and expertise to develop innovative business solutions.

The Invest Northern Ireland Innovation Vouchers programme enables small Northern Ireland registered businesses to apply for a voucher, worth up to £4,000, which they can redeem against the cost of specialist expertise from universities, colleges and publicly funded research institutes. The knowledge available can be applied to areas such as product development, process streamlining and customer interface improvement.

The current call for applications to the Innovation Vouchers programme is open from 1
November until midnight on 30 November 2011.

Click here to read more about Innovation Vouchers on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Help and advice for employers and self-employed

2011-11-01T10:00:00.001Z

Free workshops to help local businesses understand tax issues will be held throughout November 2011.

Today's businesses are facing tough times and the most successful know when to make use of the available help. That help is at hand for businesses during November when HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) continues to bring its programme of free workshops to Ballymena, Belfast and Craigavon.

The workshops are aimed at employers, sole traders and those in partnerships and they will range from advice for the newly self-employed to how VAT works.

Click here to read more about the HMRC workshops on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Investors in People helps businesses to shine

2011-10-29T11:05:00.000Z

IiP can help local businesses increase profitability, decrease staff turnover, sharpen competitive edge and boost innovation

One local business commended Investors in People, saying it allowed them to identify their own unique business needs and focus on their own specific company objectives.

Research has shown that IiP can bring many benefits to business, including increased profitability, decreased staff turnover and absenteeism, a sharpened competitive edge and a positive impact on innovation.

Click here to read more about Investors in People on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Kurdistan keen to work with NI businesses

2011-10-28T07:57:00.003Z

Many opportunities exist for Northern Ireland businesses in Kurdistan.

The Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster has urged businesses in Northern Ireland to seize the business opportunities available in Kurdistan.

Since arriving in Kurdistan, the minister has held a series of meetings with government ministers including the ministers for Agriculture and Water Resources, Municipalities and Tourism and Planning and Higher Education. She has also met with the Chief of Staff of the Council of Ministers and the Governor of Kurdistan as well as the local Chamber of Commerce.

Invest Northern Ireland offers support and guidance to businesses that are already exporting or wish to export. This includes help with market research, sales and marketing and trade visits and exhibitions.

Click here to read more about the business opportunities in Kurdistan on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Deadline for paper tax returns approaching

2011-10-27T08:32:00.003Z

The 31 October 2011 deadline for filing paper tax returns is only a few days away.

Anyone filing a paper tax return will need to ensure it is filed with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) by Monday 31 October 2011 or a face late-filing penalty. You will now be hit with a £100 penalty even if there is no tax to pay or the tax due is paid on time. The longer you delay the more you will have to pay, as there are further late-filing penalties after three, six and 12 months.

If you can't send your paper tax return by 31 October, you can still avoid a penalty by sending your tax return online instead. However if you do send a paper return after the 31 October deadline, you cannot avoid the initial £1000 penalty by subsequently filing online.

Click here to read more about the deadline for paper tax returns on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Don't waste your energy

2011-10-26T08:16:00.003Z

Businesses are urged to measure the energy efficiency of their buildings to save energy.

Businesses are urged to measure the energy efficiency of their buildings to see how they can improve the energy rating which will lead to savings in energy costs. By law if you are selling, renting out or constructing business premises you need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Energy efficiency is good for business competitiveness and good for the environment.

Using energy efficiently is something all businesses need to do. You should know how energy efficient your business property really is. Look at how your building is heated and how well it is insulated. EPCs have been introduced to clearly identify how energy efficient a building is; this affects anyone who is buying, selling, renting or building properties.

Click here to read more about the Energy Performance Certificates on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Visual merchandising key to increasing sales

2011-10-26T08:11:00.003Z

Event to highlight the impact visual merchandising can have on retail sales levels.

Knowing how to display your products to make them appealing, accessible and enticing to shoppers is critical in maximising your sales.

If you haven't put a lot of thought into visual merchandising until now, Business in the Community's (BITC) Connections Programme gives you an opportunity to learn some vital techniques for creating a professional looking display for your shop.

The seminar will take place on 2 November 2011 at the Ledcom premises, Ledcom Industrial Estate, Bank Road, Larne.

Click here to read more about the visual merchandising key to increasing sales on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

SMEs encouraged to go global

2011-10-26T08:06:00.003Z

Business Live tour sets out to promote exporting, importing and cross-border trade.

By sharing previously untold stories of export success, the organisers of Business Live roadshow hope to inspire budding entrepreneurs and SMEs to trade outside their home markets.

Ulster Bank, in association with Smallbusinesscan.com, will kick off the events tour on 16 November 2011 at Riddel Hall in Belfast. The tour will finish in Cookstown's Burnavon Arts Centre on 5 March 2012, taking in key towns and cities across the island along the way.

Click here to read more about the Business Live tour on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Employers urged to get PAYE paperwork in order

2011-10-25T07:29:00.003Z

Employers need to ensure the correct information is detailed in Pay As You Earn paperwork.

Employers in Northern Ireland are being urged to get their PAYE paperwork in order, after more than 500 returns incorrectly claimed to employ 'A N Other' in 2009/10.

Every year, employers send PAYE data to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), which gives details of employees' tax and national insurance contributions. However, it is not always accurate. This can cause problems for the employee, for example, incorrect amounts being deducted from their pay. It can also use up valuable employer and HMRC time and money putting the error right.

Click here to read more about getting your PAYE paperwork in order on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Local companies urged to do business in Europe

2011-10-22T07:45:00.000Z

Europe remains a key trading partner for Northern Ireland businesses.

The Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Rt Hon David Liddington MP have encouraged local businesses to do business in Europe. They met with members of the Northern Ireland business community to discuss the challenges of doing business in Europe.

Invest Northern Ireland offers support to businesses that are currently exporting or wishing to export including help with market research, marketing and sales, and trade visits and exhibitions. There is also an extensive international trade section with free guidance on nibusinessinfo.co.uk that can help your business whether new to or already established with exporting.

Click here to read more about local companies urged to do business in Europe on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

National insurance holiday for new businesses

2011-10-21T08:13:00.003Z

New businesses could save up to £50,000 through the Regional Employer National Insurance Contributions Holiday.

The Regional Employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) Holiday offers big reductions in employer NICs for new businesses who employ staff and meet certain criteria in specific regions. Northern Ireland is a qualifying region.

Under the three-year scheme, eligible businesses can take a 12 month 'NICs holiday' for each of the first 10 employees they hire in their first year of business, up to a maximum of £5,000 per employee. This means new businesses who take advantage of the scheme could save up to £50,000 in total.

Click here to read more about the national insurance holiday on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Countdown to new agency workers law in NI

2011-10-21T08:09:00.002Z

The Agency Workers Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011 will come into force on 5 December 2011.

The Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) has produced guidance designed to help agency workers, hirers of agency workers, and the recruitment sector to understand the new agency workers regulations.

DEL's guidance outlines the implications and responsibilities for all involved, and includes, where possible, illustrative examples and useful links that will help you understand and comply with the changes.

Click here to read more about the Agency Workers Regulations on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

How to run an employment agency or business

2011-10-19T07:51:00.003Z

New guidance to help you set up and run an employment agency or an employment businesses.

If you are setting up a business to help people find work, then it is likely that your business is either an employment agency, an employment business, or both.

In any case, as part of the recruitment industry, your new business will need to comply with not only the normal business start-up rules, but also with specific employment agency legislation, statutory codes of conduct, as well as best practice advice.

Click here to read more about the new guidance for running an employment agency or business on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Business opportunities in the nuclear supply chain

2011-10-18T07:23:00.003Z

Seminar to give local businesses an insight into the potential business opportunities associated with the various supply chains.

Invest Northern Ireland in association with ADS Ltd are hosting a free information seminar to highlight the potential business opportunities associated with the nuclear industry in the UK.

At the seminar you will hear about the potential business opportunities associated with the various supply chains, how you can access them and the associated barriers.

The seminar takes place on Wednesday 2 November 2011 from 08.30-10.45 at Corrs Corner Hotel in Newtownabbey. The event is free to attend.

Click here to read more about the business opportunities in the nuclear supply chain seminar on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Offshore wind energy event

2011-10-12T07:19:00.003Z

Local businesses have the opportunity to promote themselves at EWEA Offshore 2011 in Amsterdam.

The European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) Offshore 2011 event takes place in Amsterdam from 29 November to 1 December 2011. The event is an international meeting place for professionals already active in or looking into doing business in the offshore wind energy sector.

Invest Northern Ireland is hosting a Northern Ireland Capability Stand at the EWEA Offshore event in Amsterdam 29 November -1 December 2011 and is organising a Sectoral Trade Mission to the exhibition on 28 and 29 November. This will enable participating Northern Ireland businesses to view the exhibition, participate on the Northern Ireland Capability Stand to promote their company, attend the conference programme and participate in added value visits and networking activities.

Click here to read more about EWEA Offshore 2011 on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

European entrepreneur exchange programme

2011-10-11T07:42:00.002Z

Learn practical business skills via a placement with an established business in another EU country.

Are you interested in starting your own business? Would you like to spend time in another EU country, learning from an experienced entrepreneur? The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Programme offers potential (and recently established) start-up businesses the opportunity to learn practical lessons about running a business via a placement with an established entrepreneur in another EU country.

Click here to read more about the European entrepreneur exchange programme on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

New online patent system launched

2011-10-11T07:33:00.003Z

UK businesses could save nearly £100,000 per year thanks to a free patent system launched by the Intellectual Property Office.

The new online service, called Ipsum, will remove the cost to businesses of requesting patent documents. Instead, the documents will now be available for free at the click of a button.

The service is open to anyone and will benefit businesses researching patents, patent attorneys working for clients protecting their IP rights, and potential inventors looking for the best way to find information on patent applications.

Click here to read more about the new online patent system on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Boosting business in the tourism sector

2011-10-07T08:37:00.003Z

Future of Tourism event to help local businesses grow by examining online marketing, social media, cost control & future trends.

Northern Ireland's Hotel Federation hosts the two-day Hospitality Exchange – the Future of Tourism event. The event will be packed with insights, workshops and a trade exhibition.

The Hospitality Exchange – the Future of Tourism event takes place over two days on 18 and 19 October 2011. The event takes place at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Belfast. There is a cost to attend some of the seminars.

Click her to read more about the Future of Tourism event on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Funding boost for renewable energy

2011-10-04T10:18:00.000Z

New funding avenues open for renewable energy products and feasibility studies.
Under the Rural Development Programme, funding can now be obtained to contribute towards the purchase a wide range of equipment to generate renewable energy.

Funding is also available of up to £5,000 matched by the applicant towards the cost of independent feasibility studies.

Click here to read more about the funding boost for renewable energy on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Export marketing for small businesses

2011-10-04T08:14:00.004Z

Event to help small local businesses make the steps to enter international markets.

Belfast City Council through the Belfast Entrepreneurs Network (BEN) hosts this event on an introduction to export marketing for small businesses with big aspirations.

Many small businesses are reluctant to consider international markets, despite having suitable products or services. This event aims to increase the appetite of small businesses to consider export markets as an option for growth.

The networking event takes place on Thursday 6 October 2011 from 17.30 at the Wellington Park Hotel in Belfast.

Click here to read more about the export marketing event on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Taking on a new member of staff?

2011-10-04T07:56:00.004Z

Use our new and improved interactive tools to ensure that you meet your legal responsibilities.

The tools, published in the Employment and Skills section of the nibusinessinfo.co.uk website, will help you through the process of taking on a new member of staff.

The tools cover all stages of the recruitment process and separately deal with:

recruiting staff

making pre-employment checks and contracts of employment

getting new workers started

Click here to read more about the new taking on an employee tool on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Help and advice for employers and self-employers

2011-10-01T13:41:00.001Z

Free workshops to help local businesses with tax issues will be held throughout October 2011.

Today's businesses are facing tough times and the most successful know when to make use of the available help. That help is at hand for businesses during October when HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) continues to bring its programme of free workshops to Banbridge, Belfast, Craigavon and Londonderry.

The workshops are aimed at employers, sole traders and those in partnerships and they will range from how to complete the Self Assessment return to how VAT works.

Click here to read more about the HMRC workshops on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Rating of empty properties

2011-10-01T13:36:00.001Z

From 1 October all empty properties will be charged rates regardless of whether or not they are in the rental sector.

From 1 October 2011 the same level of rates will be due on all domestic properties whether occupied or empty. There are some exclusions that may apply, but customers will not be able to apply for exclusion until after 1 October 2011.

Click here to read more about the rating of empty homes on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Boost sales through exports

2011-10-01T13:32:00.000Z

October events to help local businesses take the steps needed to develop sales through successful exporting.

Invest Northern Ireland are running three workshops to help Northern Ireland businesses assess their export capability and highlight the key elements of successful exporting.

The three workshops taking place in October are:
Targeting Your Export Markets – 06 October 2011
Researching Your Export Markets – 11 October 2011
Developing Your Export Markets – 18 October 2011

The workshops will all take place in the Ramada Hotel at Shaw's Bridge in Belfast.

Click here to read more about the export workshops on nibusinessinfo.co.uk

Penalty warning for paper tax returns

2011-10-01T13:27:00.000Z

If you submit a paper return after the deadline of 31 October 2011, you will automatically incur a £100 fine.

With the deadline for paper tax returns just weeks away, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is urging businesses to get their paper tax returns in on time - before midnight of 31 October - in order to avoid penalties.

Late returns, ie those paper tax returns received by HMRC on or after 1 November, will incur a £100 penalty – even if there is no tax to pay or the tax due is paid on time.

Click here to read more about the dedaline for paper tax returns on nibusinessinfo.co.uk