A-Z of Services

Business Support Programme

Did you know there’s strong evidence that new businesses which seek support and guidance are much more likely to survive to be successful long-term? It’s with this in mind that we’ve developed our business support programme which is brought to you by the Welsh Assembly Government. Our support programme provides the advice, information and support you need to start, maintain and grow a business.

To keep things as simple as possible we have divided the programme into modules, each with its own clear aims, designed to be presented to small groups by a trainer or advisor. And through workshops and one to one sessions your adviser will work with you to develop your own business plan.

All of the modules are FREE, open to anybody thinking of, or planning to, start their own business and are suitable to ALL types of business idea. To obtain information on forthcoming workshops and to book a place, call Hilary Neil-Williams on 01978 366366.

Module One – How to start your business – Taster Seminar

This seminar looks at the advantages and disadvantages of self-employment and identifies why some businesses fail. This session will help you consider your motivation for starting a business, your personal qualities and your business skills. You will also gain an understanding of business planning, the legal implications involved when starting a business and what support is available and how to access it.

Module Two – How to research your market

This workshop provides an introduction to the marketing process and will introduce you to developing marketing strategies. You will gain an understanding in market research and why good market research can provide a solid foundation in developing your marketing strategy. This session will also provide guidance on what information you need to know about your customers, competitors, the size of the market and market trends.

Module Three – How to market your business

This workshop will help you understand the tools and techniques of marketing by guiding you through the steps involved in setting marketing objectives and deciding on a marketing strategy.

Module Four – How to manage your business

This workshop provides key information on the operations of a business including the resources required, systems and procedures, production, health and safety and quality. This workshop also provides guidance on other areas such as the advantages and disadvantages of working from home and environmental issues.

Module Five – How to price your product or service

This workshop provides an understanding of the pricing process and helps identify the different types of business costs, i.e. fixed, direct and capital costs. This session also explains the link between well researched costing & pricing and profitability. You will also gain an understanding of the importance on thoroughly researching your costs in order that they provide a foundation for your financial projections.

Module Six – How to manage your business finances

This workshop will take you through the process of preparing and analysing financial statements and provides information on how to prepare cash flow forecasts, profit & loss accounts and balance sheets. The workshop demonstrates how using and understanding these tools can help you to control your business finances.

Module Seven – How to stay in control of your business

This workshop highlights the importance of book-keeping and provides guidance on how to set up a book keeping system. It also provides key information on Self Assessment for tax purposes, National Insurance Contributions, VAT, your obligations under the PAYE system and points to consider when using an accountant when setting up and running a business.

Partly funded by the Welsh Government.