Business & IP Centre

About our events

We’re here to help you start and grow your business. We offer a busy programme of free events, workshops and one-to-ones with our team of specialists, as well as access to the largest collection of business and intellectual property (IP) information in the UK, including market research, funding and company information.

Discover more about our resources and services via our webpage.

What's on

  1. Coaching session 4: Financial planning

    These coaching sessions will guide you through the fundamentals of starting a business. 

    More info
  2. The women sit around a desk
    Free

    Fashion Founder Friday

    These informal AMA’s, hosted by Fashion Angel Founder Alison Lewy MBE, give you the opportunity to ask any business related questions.
    More info
  3. Library visitor at book issue desk.
    Free

    What is a trade mark and how to search for one?

    Customers need to be able to identify your business from your competition in a highly competitive market place.
    More info
  4. Free

    An Introduction to Patents and Patent Searching

    This online workshop will explain the basics behind patents, patent protection and registration.

    More info
  5. A piece of green fabric is being run through a sewing machine

    Getting It Made

    A practical and inspiring webinar focusing on sourcing and production management for fashion and accessory brands
    More info
  6. Image of a group of people in a room taking notes.

    Get Published

    Have you written (or are writing) a book and want to get it published? This workshop covers both going via a publisher and self-publishing.

    More info
  7. Three women talking at the BIPC with Intellectual Property digital display in background.
    Free

    Introduction to Intellectual Property

    An understanding of intellectual property and its protection is vital for anyone with an idea.

    More info
  8. Three people sat around a table smiling, with pens and papers in front of them.
    Free

    Introduction to registered designs

    Almost every organisation has intellectual property of some sort – this series of webinars helps businesses to understand and protect it.

    More info
  9. Free

    GRANTfinder – Financial support for your business and community

    During this webinar the British Library will show you the GRANTfinder business information database.

    More info
  10. two women talking in a workshop.
    Free

    How do I research my market?

    A guide to using published market research sources and field research to find information on your business sector.
    More info
  11. people in a workshop
    Free

    How to keep on top of your business finances

    Maximise business potential with financial clarity! Gain vital skills in managing your business numbers confidently.

    More info
  12. Free

    Securing Your Payments

    Learn about how to build better payment strategies and tackle payment struggles.

    More info
  13. image of people in a workshop.
    Free

    Introduction to copyright for business

    Learn the basics of copyright and get an introduction to protecting and managing your copyright as well as using the work of others.

    More info
  14. Coaching session 1: Is starting a business for me?

    These coaching sessions will guide you through the fundamentals of starting a business. 

    More info
  15. people in a workshop
    Free

    How to navigate the business legal landscape with ease

    Learn the essentials of your legal setup, from business structures to day-to-day operations and establish a robust foundation.

    More info
  16. People in an audience smiling.

    Inspiring Entrepreneurs: Business Rooted in Community

    This Black History Month, we’re spotlighting the founders who don’t just build businesses, they build up entire communities. 

    More info
  17. Coaching sessions 2 & 3: Research viability and business planning

    These coaching sessions will guide you through the fundamentals of starting a business. 

    More info
  18. Three people sat at a table in a workshop.
    Free

    Start using social media for my small business

    Everyone seems to talk about social media these days, but how can Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok and blogging actually help your business?

    More info
  19. Group of people sitting and networking at tables.
    Free

    Speed Mentoring: Business Rooted in Community

    Join our speed mentoring session and speak with our expert panel celebrating Black women in business.

    More info
  20. Free

    How to develop your business strategy – Business Model Canvas

    Explore the two most effective methods to develop a winning strategy for success – the Business Plan and the Business Model Canvas.

    More info
  21. Green Libraries Week
    Free

    Green Business is Good Business

    A workshop in celebration of Green Libraries Week, focused on how businesses can communicate their environmental and ethical credentials in a way that is both compelling and credible.

    More info
  22. Two people speak to a small audience of event attendees.
    Green Libraries Week
    Free

    Start-up Stars: From Purpose to Profit

    A conversation with purpose-driven founders exploring how they are turning environmental and social challenges into viable businesses.

    More info
  23. Free

    How to apply sustainable strategies to your business

    Sustainability is vital for businesses, particularly start-ups and small enterprises aiming for long-term success.

    More info
  24. Free

    How to master the art of grant fundraising

    Master grant fundraising! Craft winning approaches and secure funding with expert guidance and strategies.

    More info