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After losing her job, Nicola was receiving Jobseeker鈥檚 Allowance and struggling to find work. Within 6 months of being made redundant, Nicola had started her own successful social media business, . Nicola was able to do this with the help of New Enterprise Allowance. She was also a finalist for the Forward Ladies Young Woman in Business Award 2014. Nicola鈥檚 situation was like many people around the UK who want to get off benefits and find success in their careers.

Here are 3 things that Nicola did to turn her situation around and become a successful entrepreneur.

1. Take advantage of the support offered by the New Enterprise Allowance

A mentor will help you create a business plan and if your idea is approved you may get financial support.

2. Research the market

皇冠体育app more you understand the industry you want to be in, the better you鈥檒l be able to develop your idea. Can you find a niche in the market?

3. Go to networking events

This will help you widen your circle of contacts and find out about potential opportunities. Contact your local Job Centre Plus to find out about networking events in your area.

What is the New Enterprise Allowance?

If you want to start your own business, New Enterprise Allowance offers a mentoring service and financial support.

Eligibility

You must be aged 18 or over, have a business idea and get one of the following benefits:

• Jobseeker鈥檚 Allowance
• Income Support as a lone parent
• Employment and Support Allowance, if you鈥檙e in the work-related activity group

A Jobcentre Plus adviser can refer you to the scheme as soon as you get a qualifying benefit.

You don鈥檛 qualify if you鈥檙e part of the Work Programme, but you can still get help setting up a business elsewhere.

皇冠体育appre鈥檚 more help available from the government

皇冠体育app New Enterprise Allowance is just one of many government schemes that offer support. Here are a few more examples of schemes you may be interested in.

• Tax credits - financial support from the government given in a number of circumstances

• Free early education or childcare - 15 hours per week for 38 weeks for 3 and 4 year olds - some 2 year olds are also eligible

• Apprenticeships - combine practical training in a job with study

• Help to Buy - helps you to buy your home

• Right to buy - helps council tenants buy their home

Other useful services: