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Latest news, blogs, case studies and advice for you and your business
Why business lenders care less about your big idea than you think
Every startup or SME owner thinks they’ve got a great idea. The spark that inspired them to take a risk, leave employment and start building a business. But then, sooner or later, they’ve got to get that idea funded. A lot of founders are surprised by the questions...
From Chief Superintendent to Business Founder: Sam Rennison
After three decades in policing, most people would be looking forward to a well-earned retirement. For Samantha Rennison, however, stepping away from a career that had seen her rise to Chief Superintendent and lead some of the country's most specialist...
Writing a Business Plan – A Quick Guide
Never written a business plan before? You're not on your own. Most people starting a business have never written a business plan. If you're a mechanic, florist, therapist, dog groomer or cleaner, you might be brilliant at what you do but have no idea where to start...
How Amy Clark brings a Shine and a Smile to South Tyneside
When Amy Clark launched Shine & Smile Services Ltd, she wasn't simply starting a cleaning business. Drawing on previous experience in the social care sector, Amy recognised a growing need for reliable, high-quality service that combined professional...
The Literature Lass: Reading, Writing and Wellbeing
When Melina Turner-Deeks launched The Literature Lass, she wasn't just looking to create another book club. She wanted to help people use reading and writing as a tool for improving wellbeing, building confidence and connecting with others. Based in Whitley Bay,...
South Shields Opticians Celebrates 100 Years in Business
Kaye Winship (third from left) and staff, with guests Barbara Tennet, South Tyneside Council’s Pledge Support Officer (left), and TEDCO’s Judith Wheatley (second from left) Healthcare professionals, local business owners, patients and members of South Tyneside Council...
Picture this for a side hustle: student shines a spotlight on Newcastle
What better way to take a break from studying for an electrical engineering degree than indulging in your hobby and heading out with a camera to capture the magnificence of the North East? For Ben Hoskins, what began as a past-time has quickly turned into a side...
South Tyneside Business Takes Off – MGS Drone Surveying Ltd
When Michael Scott recognised a growing demand for high-quality aerial imagery and accurate site data, he knew there was a business ready to be built from his photography hobby. It was March 2026 when South Shields JobCentre Plus suggested he have a chat...
From professional dancer to beauty business founder: how Megan built Brow Wow in Gateshead
Founder of Brow Wow specialist brow and beauty bar, Megan Patrick first launched the business in 2014 after retraining as a beauty therapist. Originally a professional dancer, a health condition forced her to give up dancing and look for new career opportunities....
Updated Great Offers for North East Start-ups with Tide & TEDCO
Tide has an updated offer for TEDCO clients who become new Tide members. Get £50 cashback when you open a business account with Tide* Register a UK limited company with Tide for only £14.99 instead of paying £100 via Companies House. Check if your company name is...