England

Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) - the primary source of advice for businesses in England. RDA website

Business Link - provide a network of advisors who can offer basic intellectual property advice, as well as information about many other subjects such as finance, employing people, tax and sector regulations. The advisor network is supported by a very comprehensive website that contains 430 information guides. Business Link website

UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) - work with UK-based businesses to ensure their success in international markets and they also encourage the best overseas companies to look to the UK as their global partner of choice. Their International Trade Teams can offer basic intellectual property guidance and are located in over 40 local offices around England. Every region also has dedicated sector specialists who can provide support tailored to specific industries. UKTI website

Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) - aims to address the practical needs of British manufacturers by delivering hands-on advice and assistance from experts in a wide range of manufacturing disciplines. MAS offers manufacturers a number of key services including a direct helpline support through the Regional Centres, free one-day on-site diagnostic visit by a MAS manufacturing specialist to review a company's entire manufacturing operation and Regional Centres that can follow up to deliver up to ten days' in-depth consultancy - to introduce, for example, lean manufacturing techniques, product or process innovations, or design advice. MAS Website