Have you got what it takes to start a small business?

What would you say are the main qualities or fundamentals that make you and your idea viable as a small business? Ask 20 different people and you'll probably get 20 different answers. This MSN.money article focuses on personal qualities, such as passion, commitment and perseverance, plus a good support network in terms of friends and family.

You also need an idea of course, and ideally, a USP - unique selling proposition - what makes you/your service/your product a better buy than someone else's? As with most things, I suspect it comes down to you and first impressions - whether it's your website, your business card, your first telephone call, and yes, even the way you present yourself. (They reckon you make up your mind within the first 30 seconds or so whether or not you're going to buy a house, for example.)

As well as all the above however, you're also going to need all the help you get in terms of free software, downloads, trial software, free website etc. And this is where the Small Business Centre steps in and becomes your best online buddy. Find out how you can get your business online - free.