Do you dream of running your own business? You’re not alone – more than 600,000 new businesses are predicted to launch this year. Startup rates have shot through the roof in recent years, from 440,600 in 2011 to 581,173 in 2014.
But while you know you want to be your own boss, pinpointing the idea that’s going to fill a void in the marketplace, or deliver an improvement on existing solutions, is easier said than done. Just how do you decide where to focus your entrepreneurial efforts, and what type of business will suit your skills?
Or perhaps you’ve had your lightbulb moment but you want some feedback before you invest more time and effort into the idea? Market research and mentorship could be the obvious way forward – but how can you make the most of the business community and free online resources?
Whether you want some inspiration, are looking for a gap in the market, or need some tips on supercharging your idea – our panel of experts is on hand to help during this online Q&A.
To take part, post your questions in the comments section below, tweet us @GdnSmallBiz, email us at smallbusinessnetwork@theguardian.com or join us live on this page between 1pm and 2pm on 16 September to chat directly with our panel.
Darren Pirie is head of entrepreneur development for NatWest, helping lead its UK Entrepreneur Strategy. RBS/NatWest is a partner of Entrepreneurial Spark, providing financial support, premises, mentoring and access to networks.
Jim Duffy is the founder and CEO of Entrepreneurial spark, a free business accelerator for early stage and growing businesses with a focus on growing entrepreneurial mindsets
William Lovegrove is the CEO and founder of startup SystemSync Solutions. A self-professed ‘ideas guy’, he recognised an opportunity to develop technology supporting a change in the UK’s pensions legislation. The business recently won an innovation award from InnovateUK
Melanie Hird is the director of Seneca Investments. She sources and executes deals involving SMEs, managing an investment portfolio and investor relations together with driving strategy for the businesses
Dina Behrman is a PR coach. A former journalist and commissioning editor, she works with entrepreneurs who are struggling to get exposure for their business, to help them do their own PR
Duncan Cheatle is the founder of the Supper Club networking group for entrepreneurs, as well as helping to found Start-Up Britain in 2011. He now heads up Rise To, a careers platform which matches young people with best startup job opportunities.
Ben Ansah is the co-founder of Yogiyo, a range of Korean cooking sauces. He recently won over Peter Jones on BBC 2 programme Dragons’ Den and has since secured a deal to launch nationally at Sainsbury’s
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