Bootstrapping

Bootstrapping is a term used to describe trying to establish and grow a business using just your own resources, i.e without any investors or financial support such as bank loans.

Turnover is vanity, profit is sanity

The so-called Micawber principle, as stated by Wilkins Micawber in Charles Dickens’ novel David Copperfield, says: “Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen and six, result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pounds nought and six, result misery.”
This widely used quote on personal finance is just as relevant for business finance. For any commercial and business to be successful and sustain itself over the long term, it must make a profit, i.e. revenue must exceed costs.

Elephant Control

In H.M. Williams book about growing a business, entitled Proper Coffee & Other Ways to Grow Your Business, he looks at the parallels between owning a business and owning an elephant. It might sound bizarre, but here’s a summary for you to ponder.

Charities and AI

Charities are increasingly using AI for tasks such as fundraising, bid writing, and service delivery, with examples like the Surrey Wildlife Trust’s use of AI to map habitats. Charities are advised to evaluate AI’s potential applications, assess risks, and develop strategies for responsible implementation aligned with their objectives and trustee responsibilities.

Is the VAT Flat Rate Scheme right for your small business?

VAT is a key factor for businesses, impacting cash flow and administration. The VAT Flat Rate Scheme (FRS), available to businesses with a turnover of £150,000 or less, offers simplified VAT accounting. However, its adoption requires careful consideration.

The value of your business matters

In the wake of a more positive economic outlook, businesses are often presented with opportunities for expansion and growth. But also, because there is a more favourable lending environment, or more eager investor interest, then it can be a more favourable time to exit a business.