Business & IP Centre: For every bright idea, everywhere
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.
Follow us on Instagram @businessandipcentre and LinkedIn @Business & IP Centre.
Find business support in your local library
With our network of Business & IP Centres (BIPCs) in libraries across London and the UK, we’re here to help wherever you are. Take a look at our interactive map to find your local centre and check out the resources and support available.
Free business events
From panel talks with industry leaders to specialist workshops on intellectual property, funding, marketing and more, our business events programme will inform and inspire you. With both online events and plenty of opportunities to network and meet other entrepreneurs in person, we’ve got something for everyone.
Business research and resources
We offer specialist one-to-one business support and market research for all stages of your business journey, in person or online. You can access our free industry guides, research and get specific guidance on patents and intellectual property, and come along to the BIPC and use our business databases with a member of our team.
Start-up and scale-up programmes
Kickstart Your Business
Our free two-day programme will provide practical tips to get your start-up off the ground and turn your business idea into a reality. Taking place in BIPCs across London, we offer tailored business information on everything from finding your customers to researching and protecting your brand.
Get Ready for Business Growth
Discover how our scale-up programme has helped over 400 individuals to innovate and grow their creative businesses through one-to-one mentoring, tailored workshops and access to bespoke research. Email scaleup@bl.uk to apply to join the 2025 programme.
More business resources
Catch up on our business events
Get inspired at any time with recordings of our previous Inspiring Entrepreneurs events. Covering a wide variety of topics and industries, you can learn key business tips and tricks from successful entrepreneurs.
Our Impact: Democratising Entrepreneurship
Find out how we are driving economic growth through our Network of over 100 libraries around the UK.
Read our business blog
Keep up with our best business advice from our expert team and inspiring entrepreneurs, learn about intellectual property and patents, and read interviews with BIPC success stories from across the UK.
BIPC Reading Room opening times
- Monday
- 10.00 – 20.00
- Tuesday - Thursday
- 09.30 – 20.00
- Friday - Saturday
- 09.30 – 17.00
- Sundays and holidays
- Closed
Where to find us
The Business & IP Centre (BIPC) and Reading Room is located on Floor 1 in the British Library St Pancras site.
We also have a growing network of BIPCs offering business support in local libraries across London and the rest of the UK.
Contact us at bipc@bl.uk and see how we can help you today.