Friday 26 November

Should we have been surprised when we learned this week that less than a quarter of small firms utilise free government help when involved in a dispute with another business?

After all, entrepreneurs instinctively forge ahead to build their businesses without looking for outside help at every turn.

However, ignoring free advice, and even cash, when you need it is negligent. Today, we run through the 10 government services that every start-up should be aware of.

Elsewhere today, Ms Manners gives another business etiquette masterclass, this time on the tricky issue of small talk, and mentor Dion Appel explains why age is no barrier for entrepreneurs. 

Oliver Milman, editor