Author: Martin taggart
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1. Why Funding for Business Startups is ImportantStarting a business requires capital for setup costs, marketing, inventory, and operations. Without proper funding, many startups struggle to survive in their first years. Securing the right funding helps new businesses grow sustainably. 2. Types of Funding for Business Startups 1. Personal Savings (Bootstrapping) 2. Friends and Family Support 3. Government Grants 4. Government Start-Up Loans 5. Bank Loans and Microloans 6. Angel Investors 7. Venture Capital (VC) 8. Crowdfunding 9. Revenue-Based Financing 10. Business Credit Cards & Overdrafts 3. How Much Funding Do Startups Need?Depends on the business model: 4. How to…
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1. Introduction to Grants for Young Entrepreneurs Starting a business is exciting but often comes with financial challenges. Grants for young entrepreneurs are designed to ease this burden by providing non-repayable funds to help new business owners grow. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, making them highly attractive for individuals who are just stepping into entrepreneurship. 2. Why Grants Are Important for Young Entrepreneurs Young entrepreneurs often face barriers such as limited access to capital, lack of credit history, and high competition. Grants can: 3. Types of Grants Available Grants for young entrepreneurs come in different forms, including: 4. Government…
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1. What is Selling Products Online?Selling products online means offering goods or services through digital platforms such as e-commerce websites, online marketplaces, or social media. It’s one of the fastest-growing business models in 2025, accessible to startups, small businesses, and global retailers alike. 2. Why Sell Products Online? 3. Ways to Sell Products Online 1. Online Marketplaces 2. Your Own E-Commerce Website 3. Social Media Selling 4. Dropshipping 5. Print-on-Demand 4. Steps to Start Selling Products Online Step 1: Choose Your Niche Step 2: Source Your Products Step 3: Select a Platform Step 4: Set Up Listings Step 5: Market…
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1. Introduction When launching a new business, one of the first things you’ll encounter is start up costs. But what is a start up cost? Simply put, it’s the money you need to get your business up and running before you start generating income. 2. What Is a Start Up Cost? A start up cost is any expense a business incurs during the process of setting up. These costs occur before the company starts trading and include both one-time and ongoing expenses. 3. Types of Start Up Costs 1. One-Time Costs 2. Ongoing Costs 4. Examples of Start Up Costs…
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1. IntroductionIf you want to register a limited company in the UK, the process is straightforward and can be completed online in less than a day. A limited company (Ltd) provides liability protection, a professional image, and tax advantages compared to being a sole trader. 2. Why Register a Limited Company 3. Requirements Before Registering 4. How to Register a Limited Company – Step by Step Step 1: Choose a Company Name Step 2: Decide on Directors and Shareholders Step 3: Provide a Registered Office Address Step 4: Prepare Company Documents Step 5: Register with Companies House Step 6: Pay…
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1. What is Market Research?Market research is the process of collecting, analysing, and interpreting information about a target market, customers, competitors, and industry trends. Businesses use it to make informed decisions about products, services, and strategies. It answers key questions such as: 2. Why is Market Research Important? 3. Types of Market Research 1. Primary Research (Firsthand data collection) 2. Secondary Research (Using existing data) 4. Methods of Market Research 5. Steps to Conduct Market Research 6. Benefits of Market Research for Businesses 7. Example of Market Research in ActionA coffee shop planning to open in Edinburgh may use market…
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1. Introduction Franchising is a popular way to start a business with an established brand. But before you join, you’ll need to understand franchise fees—the costs associated with buying into and operating under a franchise system. 2. What Are Franchise Fees? Franchise fees are payments made by a franchisee (the business owner) to a franchisor (the parent company) for the right to operate under their brand, systems, and support. These fees vary depending on the industry, brand reputation, and level of support provided. 3. Types of Franchise Fees 1. Initial Franchise Fee 2. Ongoing Royalty Fees 3. Marketing and Advertising…
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1. IntroductionIf you’re wondering how to get business loan, you’re not alone—funding is one of the biggest needs for startups and established businesses alike. Whether you need money for expansion, equipment, or working capital, understanding the process increases your chances of success. 2. Why Get a Business Loan 3. Types of Business Loans 4. Eligibility Criteria to Get Business LoanLenders usually assess: 5. Documents Needed 6. How to Get Business Loan – Step by Step 7. Where to Get a Business Loan 8. Tips to Increase Approval Chances 9. Risks of Business Loans Frequently Asked Questions Q1: How can I…
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1. IntroductionA business plan for food truck is essential for launching and running a successful mobile food business. It outlines your concept, target customers, operations, and financial forecasts, helping you secure funding and stay on track. 2. Why You Need a Business Plan for Food Truck 3. Executive Summary 4. Business Description 5. Market Analysis 6. Menu and Pricing 7. Operations Plan 8. Marketing and Sales Strategy 9. Management and Staffing 10. Financial Plan 11. Risk Analysis 12. Growth Opportunities Frequently Asked Questions Q1: How much does it cost to start a food truck in the UK?Typically between £20,000 and…
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1. Introduction Every successful business needs to stand out in a crowded marketplace. A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) highlights what makes your business different from competitors. But what benefits does a USP offer a business? From attracting customers to boosting profitability, the advantages are significant. 2. Clear Market Differentiation A USP helps customers instantly understand why they should choose your business over others. By communicating your unique value, you create a strong competitive edge. 3. Stronger Brand Identity With a well-defined USP, businesses build a clear and memorable brand image. Customers know exactly what the business stands for, increasing recognition…