WORKSHOPS are being held to offer free advice to fledgling businesses in York.

Hentons has partnered with York Science Park to help guide students, entrepreneurs and start-up businesses that are part of the park’s Phase One initiative.

The York-based chartered accountancy and business advisory firm is lending support at a series of sessions, covering everything from bookkeeping to cloud accounting, tax and more.

York Science Park is a supportive environment for more than 100 businesses from various sectors including science, technology, digital and creative, and provides flexible space, inclusive of utilities, on short-term agreements.

Phase One provides space and support to students, digital, creative, tech and science innovators, helping them to turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.

Based at The Catalyst, on the University of York’s Campus East, Phase One provides the time, space and support to start, grow and develop businesses in collaboration with partners from across the region.

Tim Baum-Dixon, from Hentons, said they had been keen to partner with Phase One.

“There is so much to consider when starting up a business. Understandably, the focus is often on refining the product or service and how to bring it to market, but fundamental accountancy principles can’t be ignored. If they are understood and implemented right from the start, it will contribute to the long-term success of the business.”

He added: “It was great to work with so many talented people, who are taking their first steps into business. Our region and York Science Park, in particular, are fantastic places to launch a business from, but in order to succeed, people need the right guidance. We are proud to play a part in the development of so many pioneering and original ideas and hope to continue supporting them as they come to life and grow.

“Our next workshop will take place online on May 12 and cover the basics of bookkeeping as well as discussing the advantages of Cloud Accounting.”

Olivia Chatten, from York Science Park, said: “Phase One members get personal, direct access to a range of specially selected partner organisations that use their significant knowledge, skills and expertise to accelerate members’ growth potential. The first workshop with Hentons, which we also opened up to entrepreneurial students at the university, was very popular, with positive feedback from attendees on its relevance and clarity.

“By partnering with such an experienced accountancy firm, we are giving our residents a valuable added benefit that will ultimately help business growth.”