Business & IP Centre
We support small business owners, entrepreneurs, inventors and anyone with a business idea. Offering insights and access to free resources, training and events - both online and in-person - we're here to help you start or develop a successful business.
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.
Core services
We offer one-to-one expert advice and support for all stages of your business journey, in person or online. We cover a wide range of topics including intellectual property, funding and business planning.
Our onsite business databases are currently unavailable, but you can still access our free industry guides, attend workshops and events.
National Network
You can find our National Network of BIPCs in regional and local libraries across the UK. With a range of small business support services, and a growing collection of helpful tools available online, we'll meet you wherever you live and whatever your ambition.
London Network
We deliver free grass roots business support across five London boroughs (and growing). We also offer a two-day start-up programme to help you start and develop your business. You can join BIPC events, workshops and webinars in person and online via BIPCs in borough libraries across London.
Get Ready for Business Growth
Get Ready for Business Growth is our free scale-up support programme funded by Arts Council England. We are open for applications from creative businesses with £80k + turnover.
To find out more, email customer@bl.uk to express your interest and a member of our team will contact you with next steps.
Business events on offer
Check out our full schedule of events online or at the British Library. We run a busy schedule of webinars and workshops as well as exciting Inspiring Entrepreneurs events that you won't want to miss.