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How to Start a Business in West Sussex

Free start-up resources and useful local contacts.

Improve your chances of success!

How to Start a Business in West Sussex

Starting a business in West Sussex

If you are thinking about starting a business in West Sussex or would like to grow your existing business, we would love to help you.

Start Your Own Business in West Sussex contains resources and the information that will help give your venture the best chance of success. It also highlights organisations who offer friendly advice and the services that you are likely to need as a new startup or local business owner.

Grants | Networking groups | Business advice | Mentoring | Co-working spaces

Starting a business in West Sussex

Local help for startups

There is plenty of help for startups in West Sussex but where can it be found?

Select classification:

Business advice in a group Advice & Support
An accountant with calculator Accountancy
A bookkeeper at work Bookkeeping
Coworkers desks Co-Working
Bank of England Funding
Photo of a piggy bank Grants
A mentor with group Mentoring
Networking group talking Networking
A view of a smart office Office Services
Online marketing graphic Online Marketing
A web designer at desk Web Design
A nice place to work Workplaces

Local partners

Local people are starting businesses right now, and many have not yet chosen an accountant, bookkeeper, designer, web designer, premises, funding, business adviser or provider for anything else they need.

Be the one they find first - we only ever recommend one partner per trade, per area, for just £10 per year. Find out more

These local businesses have already claimed their exclusive spot and are keen to help local start-ups:

Chris Dowling Business Consultant & Mentor
Tipton Marketing
Chichester Print
Dpi Photography
KyDesign
WordPress Pack
Access business finance up to £250k

If you're considering starting a business in West Sussex, England, you're entering a region with a thriving economy, picturesque landscapes, and a supportive business environment.

Located in the South East of England, West Sussex offers a strategic location, excellent transport links, and a diverse range of industries to explore.

Demographics
  • West Sussex has a population of approximately 858,800 people, making it a vibrant and dynamic area for business opportunities.
  • The county has a mix of urban centres, rural communities, and coastal towns, providing a diverse customer base for various industries.
Major Towns and Cities
  • Chichester : With its historic charm and bustling city center, Chichester is known for its tourism, retail, and cultural activities.
  • Worthing : As a vibrant seaside town, Worthing attracts tourists and offers opportunities in hospitality, leisure, and entertainment industries.
  • Crawley : Situated near Gatwick Airport, Crawley is a hub for aviation-related businesses, logistics, and technology sectors.
  • Horsham : Known for its picturesque beauty and strong local economy, Horsham provides opportunities in retail, professional services, and manufacturing.
Local Authorities

Local authorities can help you understand the business landscape and provide access to useful resources. They are responsible for numerous business related subjects such as health & safety, planning, business rates, and often have a department dedicated to economic development.

Business Support Organisations

In addition to the local authorities, various business support organisations can provide valuable guidance and resources. Consider exploring the following:

  • Gatwick Diamond Business : Supports businesses across the Gatwick Diamond area, including parts of West Sussex, with networking, training, and business advice.
  • Coast to Capital : Provides support for businesses in the West Sussex region, including funding opportunities, business growth advice, and access to resources.
  • West Sussex Growth Programme : Offers funding, mentoring, and support for small and medium-sised enterprises (SMEs) looking to grow and expand in West Sussex.
  • Sussex Chamber of Commerce : Represents and supports businesses across Sussex, providing networking events, training, and business resources.
Conclusion

West Sussex, England, presents a wealth of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. Its strong economy, diverse demographics, and supportive business environment make it an attractive location to start and grow a business. By leveraging the resources and support provided by local authorities and business support organisations, you can access valuable guidance, networking opportunities, and funding options to succeed in your entrepreneurial journey. Remember to conduct thorough market research, develop a robust business plan, and take advantage of the resources available to you. With determination, innovation, and the right support, you can turn your business aspirations into a reality in the vibrant West Sussex.

Free Startup Guide

Start Your Own Business in 2026

Download the 2026 edition of our Free Start Your Own Business guide

An interactive step-by-step guide which also includes all of the most important subjects covered in an easy-to-read way with links to useful online articles and relevant contacts.

The idea of starting your own business can be incredibly exciting and who can blame you for being tempted?

However, the sad truth is that far too many new enterprises fail in the early stages. Our aim is to make sure that you don't become one of them.

This guide explains the key start-up subjects in simple English.

There is also plenty of help available in the area and much of it is free - please do make the most of it.

Read more about what our Free guide contains and how you can download it.
More Information and instant download
More Information and instant download
Starting a business in West Sussex

Key Contacts in West Sussex

'You don't know what you don't know' is a phrase that is so applicable to starting a new business.

West Sussex is a great place for start-ups but your chances of success are dramatically improved if you make the most of the support that is available locally. Click on logos to visit their websites.

Tipton Marketing

Marketing

Tipton Marketing
Tipton Marketing & PR offers a fresh look at your marketing through inspirational ideas supported with solid expertise. Be it a full marketing strategy or a simple digital campaign I am able to work flexibly either alongside you or your marketing team providing bespoke consultancy support so you have an expert on hand as and when you need them. My aim is to absorb myself into your business and bring innovative ideas into your existing plans or create new, exciting ways of promoting your business but ultimately ensure that your results are targeted and achieve what you need. With excellent contacts throughout the business network I always ensure my clients are given 110% in everything we do and that together we achieve the outstanding results that every business requires in todays competitive marketplace, take a look at my client base and testimonials for reassurance! My work includes Marketing Strategy, Digital & Content Marketing, Public Relations, New Business Development, Training and Event Management. So, whether your business needs a full marketing & PR strategy put in place or just a little bit of marketing support every now and then, please do get in touch and lets see how we can work together to move your business forward.
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KyDesign

Design

KyDesign
I am a graphic designer based in West Sussex. I have a great passion for graphic design and would like to express that by helping other with my skills. KyDesign is a freelance design company specialising in graphic design. KyDesign has designed work for many business. We provide; Logo Design, Posters & Print Material, Packaging Design, Branding, Advertisements,Webgraphics and More.
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Tradeskills 4U

Directory

Tradeskills 4U
Trade Skills 4U provide electrical training courses and qualifications for beginners and experienced electricians, with training centres around the UK and online learning options available. From apprenticeships and entry-level training to upskilling opportunities, their accredited courses are designed for all skill levels. Get in touch to book today.
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Enterprise Exchange

Advice

Enterprise Exchange
Enterprise Exchange specialise in helping people with additional barriers become self employed or start a business to transform their lives. We have a wealth of experience – not just providing business support, but also helping to build the confidence and self esteem of our clients. We are very aware that mainstream business support is either too expensive or not fit for purpose for our client group. Our business coaches and mentors understand the barriers that our clients face and use tried and tested techniques to help them overcome challenges. We work with offenders, ex offenders, long term unemployed and others who have experienced barriers to starting their own business. We also run enterprise programs for young people, have a dedicated women’s business adviser and a unique management development program for corporate clients.
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Compass Pools UK

Directory

Compass Pools UK
Compass Pools is part of the Waterstream Group, designers, suppliers and installers of luxury swimming pools. Specialising in ceramic composite one-piece pools, the team transforms properties around the UK.
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Apple clean

Property

Apple clean
Regarded as one of the best cleaning companies in Sussex, the team at Apple Clean have helped a wide range of clients with their cleaning requirements for more than thirty years. Offering a huge array of services, including carpet cleaning, stain removal, upholstery cleaning and more, visit the dedicated website today to receive a free, no obligation quote.
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Let's Do Marketing

Marketing

Let's Do Marketing
Let’s Do Marketing is a subsidiary of Let’s Do Business Group that is here to help small businesses grow through marketing. Focussed on providing affordable and accessible support to new and small businesses, they offer consultancy and marketing services that can help you to achieve your big marketing ideas. Whether you’re just starting out with a brand new business or looking to grow, we can give you the guidance to create a marketing strategy that matches your goals. Let’s Do Marketing can also provide training to help you take control of your own marketing strategy, from learning new software and tools to creating award winning campaigns! Find out more about our services https://www.letsdomarketing.co.uk/ Want to chat about how Let’s Do Marketing can help you to level up your business? Get in touch at https://www.letsdomarketing.co.uk/contact or email us at hello@letsdomarketing.co.uk!
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iManage Performance Ltd

Coaching

iManage Performance Ltd
iManage Performance specialise in training courses for businesses to help them operate more efficiently and boost skills within teams. They provide a range of delivery methods to suit your needs, from elearning and online classrooms to coaching and face-to-face training. Their courses span a variety of subjects, including remote team management, hybrid working, communication and leadership.
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Chichester Print

Print

Chichester Print
Chichester Print is a print management and supply company in Chichester, West Sussex, providing a quality, affordable print solution for all of your marketing needs. We offer a wide range of print products including letterheads, business cards, leaflets, brochures, folders, posters, banners and just about everything you need to promote your business. Our experienced team have been supplying great quality print to businesses for over 30 years; always the right product at the right price! We also offer a full design service to ensure your business communications always give the right first impression. We are always happy to discuss your printing needs, even if you’re not sure what you are after our experience can help you choose the right products for your marketing goals… just ask us!
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Let's Do Business - Sussex Events

Networking

Let's Do Business - Sussex Events
We regularly run events across East Sussex to help entrepreneurs and business owners learn new skills. From start up skills to learning about marketing, sustainability, finance and more, we might have an event coming up to suit you!
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Arabian Tent Company

Directory

Arabian Tent Company
Discover the unique collection of luxury marques available at Arabian Tents. Founded by Katherine Hudson, they have created beautiful, inspiring environments for more than a decade.
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Red Alpha Design

Design

Red Alpha Design
Red Alpha Design is a digital design agency based in Arundel, West Sussex. We specialise in everything from website design and build, to company branding, marketing and social media. We offer our fantastic range of services not only to local businesses and individuals, but also to clients nationwide. Our website design and build rates are very competitive and we also offer a comprehensive range of maintenance packages to look after and protect your website. We work with everyone from small startups and established local businesses to nationwide companies and international brands. Full Services include: - Website design & build - eCommerce solutions - Branding packages - Website maintenance packages - Website support - Hosting, domains & email solutions - Online marketing - Social media management 6 & 12 month payment plans available 10% Discount if you mentioning SYOB
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PatchWorksUK

Directory

PatchWorksUK
PatchWorks UK supply topical vitamin patches and supplements that are delivered directly into the bloodstream. Ideal for sensitive stomachs and incredibly easy to use, the wide range of products covers all the usual nutrition and health issues. Visit the website and enjoy 10% off your first order.
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Harry Batten Cakes

Directory

Harry Batten Cakes
Based in Haywards Heath, Harry Batten Cakes create beautiful made-to-order birthday cakes with free delivery across mid Sussex. Ordering couldn't be easier; simply choose from their range of flavours and add a personalised message. Their cakes are five star rated, so you can be sure your cake will impress your recipient in both looks and taste. Visit the website to order online today.
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Document Options Ltd

Directory

Document Options Ltd
Crawley-based Document Options have provided clients with document storage and management services for nearly 30 years. Why not see what they could do for you and your business? Visit their website for further information.
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The Bag Broker.eu

Directory

The Bag Broker.eu
The Bag Broker EU provide commercial packaging solutions to customers in the food and drinks industry. Available in a range of designs, sizes and premium finishes, our bags are manufactured in ISO-9000 certified factories at competitive prices and fast turnaround times. Order on our website.
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Access business finance up to £250k

Funding

Access business finance up to £250k
Let’s Do Business Finance offers funding to both start-up businesses and businesses wanting to grow and invest in their future. Start up finance We’re one of the official Business Support Partners of the British Business Bank and Start Up Loan Company. We can offer loans from £500 up to £25k with a fixed interest rate of 6% per annum, and that includes 12 months of free mentoring to help you get off to the best start. Could you be eligible? Find out more https://www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/lets-start-up Business loans Let’s Do Business Finance are able to offer business loans to help established businesses to grow. We’re accredited lenders of the Recovery Loan Scheme under the British Business Bank, and we’re able to lend from £25,001 to £250,000 on terms from 3 months to 6 years. This business finance can be used to help you secure anything from new premises, equipment, and capital, and our team can help you to assess your cash flow and finances, build your marketing strategy and more with our built-in business support which is tailored to your needs. Want to learn more about business loans, and see if you’re eligible? Visit our website https://www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/ or send us an enquiry https://www.letsdobusinessfinance.co.uk/contact-us
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Hunters Group

Property

Hunters Group
If you are looking for an award-winning estate agent in Mid Sussex, Hunters Group is the one. As land and residential sales experts, customers can enjoy experienced agents specialising in property sales, lettings, property management and new homes. With over 20 years of experience, award-winning and specialist advice about the property industry is only a phone call away. Get in touch today.
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The Bag Broker.co.uk

Directory

The Bag Broker.co.uk
The Bag Broker UK works with clients in the UK tea, coffee and food industry to provide pre-made bags and pouches as well as custom-printed designs. Browse the website to see materials, colour options and closures.
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The Health Hub

Directory

The Health Hub
The Health Hub provide a wide variety of rehabilitation treatments and massage therapies to clients across Sussex. From their comfortable and welcoming clinic in Haywards Heath, their experienced team deliver a host of therapies, from massage sessions to Pilates, physiotherapy and osteopathy. Call the team today to book an appointment or learn more.
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George Ide LLP

Directory

George Ide LLP
Experienced solicitors George Ide LLP are dedicated to delivering excellent legal advice to you or your business. You can be assured that the knowledgable team are focussed on achieving the best possible outcome whatever your situation. Get in touch to discuss your legal needs.
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Let's Do Business Group

Advice

Let's Do Business Group
Our business support service is tailored to meet small-to-medium sized businesses needs. Our support includes, but is not limited to: Strategic planning All good businesses have a plan we can help you shape yours by understanding your objectives and then working with you to plan the steps you need to take to be successful. Finance and risk Our advisory team includes finance specialists who will identify finance solutions to support your cash flow as well as helping you to invest in new opportunities to grow your business. Marketing When youve built a brand your customers will love, the next step is getting it to them. We can help you to build a new marketing strategy to raise your business profile and generate new leads. Workplace operations We can work with you to identify the best operating environment including finding or relocating premises, staff management and your stock and supply chain. Get in touch https://www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk/contact-us or call 0844 415 2272 (Calls cost 5p/min plus your phone company's access charge. If your mobile tariff allows free calls to landlines, you can call 01424 205 500.) Email info@ldbgroup.co.uk Start up support If you've got your business idea but don't know where to take it next, we offer support that can help you learn the skills you need to succeed. How can we help your business to #StartUp? - Access our fully funded start up workshops - A free online session with one of our specialist business advisers - A free online session with one of our finance & funding experts - Free advice on finding premises in East Sussex - A free advice session from an approved accountant and an approved solicitor - Preferential rates for new businesses moving into Newhaven Enterprise Centre - Access to business information fact sheets - Support to apply for a Start Up Loan Get in touch https://www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk/contact-us or call 0844 415 2272 (Calls cost 5p/min plus your phone company's access charge. If your mobile tariff allows free calls to landlines, you can call 01424 205 500.) Email info@ldbgroup.co.uk
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John Whyte Equity Release Sussex

Financial Service

John Whyte Equity Release Sussex
If you are a West Sussex-based homeowner seeking professional and independent equity release advice, John Whyte Equity Release is the place to go. With over 23 years of experience in financial services, customers can be sure of expert guidance regarding lifetime mortgages, home reversion and life insurance. To find out more about equity release services, call for a free, no-obligation discussion.
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Ceris Davies

Directory

Ceris Davies
Ceris Davies creates beautiful bespoke garments for any occasion, using high quality fabrics sourced from the UK. Each dress is tailormade to your exact specifications, whether youre in need of a bridal gown, a bridesmaids or prom dress, or a bespoke creation for your special event. In addition to handmade dresses, Ceris Davies also offers alterations for the perfect fit.
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Stephen Laundy

Mentoring

Stephen Laundy
I have been mentoring Startups professionally for 10 years and also volunteer at The Princes Trust as a specialist fashion, retail and trading mentor and have in total mentored over 300 people either part time or one off trouble shoot meetings. I have worked for conglomerates and startups and every size in between. I mainly work now in international trade with brands globally. I work with them to find partners in new markets. I have worked with some of the biggest fashion brands as well as startups, large and small. You can see my bio on my website here: fashioncompass.co.uk ourteam You can see my current work here: linkedin.com stephenlaundy I am now based in Bognor Regis despite 0207 number.
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Wickwoods Country Club

Directory

Wickwoods Country Club
Located in the West Sussex Countryside and boasting a range of facilities from a gym and sauna to spa day treatments and relaxing hydro pool, Wickwoods provides everything you need for a relaxing day out.
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John Haynes Mercedes

Directory

John Haynes Mercedes
John Haynes are Mercedes-Benz specialists based in Worthing, providing a range of servicing, repairs and diagnostics services for both modern and classic models. From vehicle health checks to spare parts, MOTs and restoration services, their experienced team deliver an excellent standard of work and fantastic on-site facilities. Get in touch today.
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Harvey Maria

Directory

Harvey Maria
Harvey Maria have created luxury vinyl flooring in award-winning designs for over 25 years. Their exceptional vinyl floors combine durability with style, whether youre installing them in kitchens, bathrooms or bedrooms. Premium vinyl flooring is low maintenance and long-lasting, providing a non-slip, waterproof surface. Get in touch with Harvey Maria today.
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Sussex Chamber of Commerce

Accountancy

Sussex Chamber of Commerce
Our vision is to support business growth, champion key issues and drive sustainable economic growth in SussexOur team works with businesses from SMEs to multi-nationals to ensure they get access to the best possible business support. Our services can raise your profile, cut your costs and provide links to our close network of influential business leaders. We drive change from the ground up, helping companies, places and people achieve their potential. There are plenty of reasons to being a member.
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Maltaward

Directory

Maltaward
Maltaward provide security and civil engineering solutions to clients in the public and private sector across the South East. From concrete and plastic barriers available for hire and purchase, to temporary fencing, airline service and more. Visit the website today for more on their services.
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Let's Do Business Group

Advice

Let's Do Business Group
With the ability to help businesses across all sectors, our team can offer business consultancy services to help you achieve your goals. The Let’s Do Business Group can provide virtual business consultancy services through our team of business professionals and quality assured consultants. Whether its developing a business plan or strategy, coaching or mentoring of senior staff and business owners, or just being a sounding board our team are here to help. We offer a free initial consultation so that we understand your needs, and you get to know us. We will then agree how we will work together and our fees – this could be from a one off session, a short support programme or a longer term project. We also have access to a range of other business specialists to help you with anything from Marketing to HR – so whatever your need, we can find a solution. Contact the team today at https://www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk/contact-us or email info@ldbgroup.co.uk
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Sussex Fireplace Gallery

Directory

Sussex Fireplace Gallery
Find your next fireplace, gas fire, electric fire or woodburning stove at Sussex Fireplace Gallery. Were a family run business with a vast range of traditional and contemporary fires to choose from at our showrooms near Brighton and Eastbourne. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer all your queries, arrange for a home visit and professional installation. Get in touch today.
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Reeves Financial

Financial Service

Reeves Financial
Professional financial advice from registered IFA specialising in mortgages, equity release, retirement planning and long term care, as well as general investment and portfolio management.
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Business and IP Centre

Advice

Business and IP Centre
We offer a wealth of FREE online business resources that can help you to start your own business, build professional skills, connect with others, and grow.The BIPC Brighton & Hove at Brighton Jubilee Library is the Sussex Regional Centre, with a BIPC Local at Crawley Library, West Sussex. In East Sussex, BIPC Locals at Eastbourne Library and Hastings Library, support entrepreneurs, start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises in Sussex, from that first spark of inspiration to successfully launching and developing a business.
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Advice

Business Buddy
provide business training and advice not available from the Government sponsored Agencies or Government bodies in the Sussex area. We always recommend that you investigate any FREE support so we have done the research for you.
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Start-up articles

100's of free startup articles

We have created a collection of 100s of startup articles to help anyone with whatever stage they are on with their business journey. Hundreds of thousands of people have gone before you and we can learn from what they got right and avoid the things that have been proved not to work so well.

You can see the full list of 'articles' at: How to start a business

FREE Start-up Pack

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Startup Pack

Start-up Guides

Our FREE downloadable guides are packed with the information that you need to start and grow a your business.

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