Business Planning is an introductory one-day training programme that enables individuals with a business idea to develop their own business plans.  Our innovative approach helps participants to think through the key elements of business planning and apply solutions that produce viable and sustainable businesses.

This workshop style programme is aimed at individuals starting their own businesses, people creating social enterprises or organisations seeking funding for new projects. 

Why Business Planning?
Whether we like it or not the ‘business plan’ is the most important part of any business or funded project.  Translating the business idea into a meaningful and viable plan presents big challenges to most people.  But business planning is so much more than having a written business plan.  Rather it is about understanding the components of the business plan and directly engaging with the planning process.  If it’s your business you need to ‘own’ the business plan.  Failure to understand the business plan brings risks to achieving a success.

  ‘Writing a good business plan is more art than science.  It is good to have a proven process and format, but you can’t just fill in the blanks on a master planning document.  It is a matter of asking yourself the right questions that brings about a successful business plan’.   ABC Business Consulting

 The Business Planning programme helps you to ask the right questions about your business idea or project and provides a format that can be reviewed and developed as the business develops and grows.

Who should attend?
The programme is designed for people wanting to turn their dream business idea or project into a reality.  Perhaps you have already launched your business and need help to make it more profitable.  You may wish to become self-employed, create a small company, establish a charity or deliver a new project within your organisation. You may have been made redundant and want a new challenge or thinking about changing your career or simply creating a second income. 

What participants will gain?

•   Understanding the business planning process
•   Knowledge of different elements to a good business plan
•   Appreciation of the unique selling point (USP) of their business
•   Tools to test the viability of the business plan
•   Recognition of the risks associated with the enterprise
•   Awareness of good financial forecasting and budgeting
•   Ability to write your own business plan
•   Access to follow up support

 What will be the approach?

The Business Planning programme is facilitated by Bob Northey, Director of Social Traders CIC.  Bob is a SFEDI accredited business adviser and professional trainer with 25 years experience in the development, management and marketing of social enterprises.  Participants will be offered a jargon-free, practical approach to learning that builds on the knowledge and experience of participants in a relaxed, friendly and supportive environment.

 How to book your place?

Each programme offers up to 10 places in order that participants will gain the most from the sessions and learn from one another. The programme starts at 9:30am and finishes at 4:00pm with a 30 minute lunch break. To register please  download, print off and complete the booking form below.

Check our events page for programme dates.