Start-Up Essentials 2-Day Workshop

Please note: This course is held across a 2-day block between 9.30am and 3pm each day.

For 30 years, this flagship in‑person programme has helped new entrepreneurs turn early ideas into confident first steps. Led by an experienced business adviser with real‑world insight, the course blends practical guidance with case studies that show what starting a business really looks like.

You don’t need any previous business knowledge - just bring your idea, whether it’s a spark, a concept or something you’re ready to shape further. A pen and paper or your preferred device for notes is all you’ll need. Because the course is delivered face‑to‑face, you’ll also have the chance to meet others at a similar stage, creating a supportive space to share experiences and exchange ideas.

Over the 2 days, you’ll build a clear understanding of the essentials behind planning, finance, and marketing. You’ll explore the approaches that make these foundations work in practice, helping you move forward with practical tools and a clearer sense of how to develop your business with confidence. Each session includes dedicated time for Q&A, giving the whole group the opportunity to discuss ideas, ask questions and learn from one another - so you leave with a stronger sense of direction and the momentum to take your next steps.

What You’ll Learn

• The Basics

• How will the business make money
• The key elements of a strong business plan
• How Income Tax and National Insurance work for new businesses
• The types of insurance you may need
• How to formally establish your business and the key characteristics of each structure
• Essential cyber security practices for small businesses
• Practical steps for building sustainability into your business
• What you need to know about GDPR when handling customer data

• Finances
• How to calculate and manage start‑up costs
• Ways to assess whether your idea is financially viable
• The essentials of invoicing and getting paid
• Understanding Profit & Loss and what it tells you
• Understanding legislation and compliance from HMRC and Companies House to keep your business operating legally

• Marketing
• How to analyse your competitors
• Identifying and understanding your customers
• Approaches to pricing your product or service
• The building blocks of an effective marketing plan

Please note: This course is fully funded for residents and businesses based in North Somerset. For participants who are not based in North Somerset, the course fee is £99.00