Starting and running a business can be both exciting and challenging. One of your main challenges will be standing out in the crowd and raising awareness of your new business.
The Marketing Donut can help you with everything from devising your marketing strategy to optimising your SEO so that you get found when potential local customers are searching online for the products or services just like yours.
Our Marketing Donut top picks
To set you off on the right foot, we have selected some of our favourite content to get you started.
- 11 cheap or free advertising methods
- Essential guide to writing an advertisement
- Why you must follow up leads
- How to attract more local customers
- Essential guide to influencer marketing for small businesses
Marketing apps and software
If you are looking for apps and software to help you promote your small business but don't know where to start, we have done the hard work for you. Check out our reviews of the main software options for your business.
- The best social media management apps for small businesses
- The best CRM software for small businesses in the UK
- The best customer service software for small business
- The best project management software for small businesses
- Best apps for organising and planning
Comprehensive resources for every aspect of your business
The Marketing Donut is one of five Donut websites including the Start Up Donut, Marketing Donut, Law Donut and Money Donut. The five sites offer free, practical advice tailored for small businesses in the UK covering everything you need to know. Each Donut site focuses on a specific area crucial to small business success:
- Start Up Donut: Guides you through setting up your business, from choosing a business structure to registering as a sole trader or setting up a limited company.
- Marketing Donut: Provides strategies for building your brand, reaching customers, and effectively marketing your products or services.
- Law Donut: Offers insights into legal matters, including contracts, intellectual property, and employment law.
- Tech Donut: Helps you navigate technology choices, from selecting software to implementing cybersecurity measures.
- Money Donut : Assists with financial planning, small business banking, managing cash flow, and understanding tax obligations.
Small Business News: Get the latest need-to-know news and offers
The world can be a noisy place, with social media, news and instant messages constantly vying for attention. Cut through the chatter and stay up to date with the small business news and offers that matter to you by subscribing to our free, Donut Weekly newsletter.
Start Your Own Business podcast
If you prefer learning on the go, the Start Your Own Business podcast is an invaluable resource. Hosted by Fiona Prior, the podcast features interviews with successful business owners and industry experts, sharing their experiences and practical tips. Topics range from attracting investors to setting up an ecommerce business. Celebrating over 200,000 downloads and more than 50 episodes, the podcast has become a go-to for UK-based small business owners seeking inspiration and guidance.
Donut Small Business Collective: Join our supportive community
Running a small business can sometimes feel isolating, but you don't have to go it alone. The Donut Small Business Collective is our friendly and supportive Facebook group. It's a space where UK-based small business owners and managers can connect, share experiences, ask questions, and learn from each other. Members have access to exclusive Q&As with Donut experts, networking opportunities, and the chance to feature as 'business of the week'.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you're just starting out or are looking to take your business to the next level, the Donut websites offer the tools, knowledge, and community support you need. Explore the resources available, tune into the podcast for expert insights, and join the Facebook group to connect with fellow business owners.
