Take your idea from dream to reality.

Startup Advice

There’s a story behind every business. A big idea. A spark of inspiration that ignited a big ambition. Because it takes courage to start a business. It takes a bold step to push on and do things your way. And when it gets tough, it’s your restless determination that keeps it going. We get it. Because we’re restless too.

Our startup advice collects articles from Business Guardian Angel, inspirational guest posts from real entrepreneurs and practical guides on startup essentials.

Business plans

Although they are often part of the funding process, a good business plan can be so much more. Read our guide and use our template to develop a blueprint for your business' growth. (DOCX, 167kb)

How to write a business plan Download our business plan template

Marketing plans

If getting the word out feels like a challenge, our template and guide to developing a marketing plan could get you shouting the right message from the right rooftop. (DOCX, 170kb)

How to write a marketing plan Download our marketing plan template
Business plans

Business plans

Marketing plans

Marketing plans

Business insurance

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Helen Tamblyn-Saville is an AXA customer and the owner of Wonderland Bookshop
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13 June 2022

Helen Tamblyn-Saville on how her love of books led to owning a small business

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Chatting with the Startup Angels: BOSH!

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Henry Firth of BOSH! talks about AXA Startup Angel 2022

Raphael Sofoluke, Judge for Start Up Angel 2022
Chat with Startup Angel Raphael Sofoluke

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Raphael Sofoluke talks about returning as a judge for AXA Startup Angel 2022

Sharmadean Reid MBE, Judge for Start Up Angel 2022
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Sharmadean Reid talks about AXA Startup Angel 2022

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Abigail talks about customer loyalty and taking your time to build a business.

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Starting up

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Find out how to start your own business in the gardening industry.

Gardener Bryony Mole at work, holding plants
Small business stories: gardener Bryony Mole

Starting up

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Gardener Bryony Mole talks about running her own small business

Small Business Stories: Faris Aranki

Starting up

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Faris Aranki of Shiageto Consulting shares his advice for small business owners

Meet the 2021 AXA Startup Angel winner: Ben Elderkin-Shute

Starting up

30 August 2021

Meet one winner of AXA's Startup Angel competition 2021: Ben Elderkin-Shute.