A global search is underway for startups keen to develop innovative and customer-centric e-commerce solutions, with applications now open for a new accelerator programme in the North West of England. Online electricals retailer AO is partnering with London-based global startup accelerator L Marks to launch the AO Innovation Lab. Based at AO's high tech, high spec premises at Parklands in Bolton, the 10-week programme offers startups expert mentorship, opportunities to trial products at scal...

With so many options for consumers to choose from, it's your brand that sets your business apart from your competitors. Branding is a powerful business tool and in an ever-changing marketing landscape, you need to constantly re-evaluate your branding strategy to keep pace with the latest trends in technology and consumer expectations. The competition to win customers is tougher than ever and businesses that don't take full advantage of branding and marketing opportunities will be left behin...

Ask nearly anyone, and they'll tell you they wish they had an extra hour in every day. Ask a startup entrepreneur, and they might tell you they wish they had an extra five hours in their day. So, while we might all wish for it, we aren't magical, and we'll have to do with the time we're given. The best answer to gaining time is to get more productive with your day. In this article, we look at five ways for startups to increase productivity. Do this, and you just might find that elusive extra hou...

No one succeeds alone. There's a proverb that says "it takes a village to raise a child" and founding a company is a lot like raising a child. It requires the input of an entire community to gain experience, learn and grow. And while there's no "one-size-fits-all" guide to success, there are some universal truths that can help you steer your new venture in the right direction. Here, artificial emotional intelligence pioneer Rana el Kaliouby shares what she's learned about four key...