This course will identify the key components of a strong business plan and develop a robust, comprehensive plan for your business giving you the confidence to be able to discuss the contents knowledgably with funders. Use the business plan as a tool to secure funding, communication and growth.

Content:

• The purpose and importance of preparing a business plan
• Types of business plans and the elements that are included in every business plan
• Goal setting - How to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals
• SWOT analysis: Identifying gaps in business skills (self-assessment template) and action plans to address gaps; using PESTLE to analyse external factors
• Sales & Marketing overview – The marketing plan (4Ps and 3Ms); what problems are you solving? How do you solve their problems? How are you better/worse than competition? Scoping the market - how will you secure enough customers?
• Introduction to Financial projections
• Using the business plan to secure finance and grant support, including other documents that will be required to accompany funding applications and predicting questions that could be asked on the plan
• How are business plans evaluated and pre-empting questions on the plan
• Using the business plan as a roadmap to drive ongoing positive action and growth in the business
• Common “mistakes” in business plans and tips to improve the quality and completeness of the business plan

This course will be delivered by Marie Manning of Manning Financial Management