Without expert help and assistance, starting a new business can seem like a minefield.

It is one of our aims actively to support, encourage and nurture County Durham's essential network of local businesses by providing a range of incentives and assistance to those wishing to start up or develop their business in the County, to make it all as simple as possible.

We have a dedicated team to support local businesses, from the small start-up operation to the established inward investor.

We can help at every stage from business plan preparation to site and factory selection, from market research to overseas trade missions.

We can also help to identify supplier or subcontracting links between local companies.

To get in touch with a member of our Business Services team, click the 'Contact' button below for contact details.

For additional help and information about starting up in business, go to Business Link North East's website www.businesslinknortheast.co.uk