Business start-ups offered 'free office space'

Date: 28th January 2009

Struggling business start-ups are to be offered access to free office space as part of an innovative new scheme.

Launched by the workspace solutions group Regus, the Get Started campaign will provide use of its business centres, lounges and cafes.

Entrepreneurs will also be given the opportunity to take advantage of meeting rooms and day offices for up to three months in more than 1,000 locations across the world.

John Dunsmore, managing director of the British Chambers of Commerce, commented: "Entrepreneurs and small companies are currently being squeezed on all sides - from declining customer confidence to increasing energy and office costs as well as a lack of access to credit."

He added that the scheme would help business start-ups "get going" amid the present economic climate.

Business start-ups have until January 31st to complete their self-assessment tax returns, which must now be filed online with HM Revenue and Customs.