Business Link website relaunched as Global Entrepreneurship Week begins

The government has unveiled the first new services provided by the revamped Business Link website as more than 100 countries begin an annual celebration of enterprise.

Business Link, the government's flagship support service for entrepreneurs in England, will close its face-to-face operations on 25 November following the demise of the Regional Development Agency network. The services will be replaced by a redesigned national website and a new telephone helpline.

The first of the new online initiatives was officially revealed today.

Available at www.businesslink.gov.uk/newservices, they are 'My New Business' for new entrepreneurs and 'The Growth and Improvement Service', designed to be "the first place to go to access essential information, support and services for businesses".

The services were unveiled on Monday morning at the UK launch of Global Entrepreneurship Week which starts in more than 100 countries today.

During the event at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, business and enterprise minister Mark Prisk said: "We know that events like Global Entrepreneurship Week can transform people's appetite for enterprise.

"We want to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs which will help to connect people, share ideas and help people develop the knowledge and confidence they need to pursue their dreams."

Among the 1,800 UK events taking place is the final of BusinessZone.co.uk's small business competition The Pitch 2011 on 18 November in London. It is also the official closing party for the UK celebrations. Tickets are available here.

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