A practical course helping people turn ideas into income and build financial independence. Dates & Location TBC

What it is

Business Builder is a step-by-step programme designed to give people the confidence and tools to start their own business. It’s hands-on, practical, and includes workbooks to make the process clear and manageable. Bring a laptop or iPad if possible: we’ll be getting things set up together in real time.

The course covers:

Sparking and shaping a business idea
Choosing the right structure (sole trader, limited company, CIC)
Basics of accounting and insurance
Building a minimum viable product (MVP)
Branding: purpose, style, and content pillars
Getting online: domains, socials, and web presence
Finding your ideal customer
Quickest route to market
Simple, sustainable marketing

At the end, participants walk away with a clear plan, a toolkit they can use straight away, and the confidence to start building financial independence.

Who it’s for

People on Universal Credit exploring self-employment
Jobseekers who want to create their own opportunities
Parents and carers looking for flexible ways to earn
Anyone needing an accessible, practical route back into work

What we need from partners

We’re not looking for funding. What helps most is:

Contacts: Introductions to DWP, job centres, and organisations already working with potential participants.
Hosting: Space and support to run sessions.
Inclusion: Adding Business Builder to existing return-to-work or business support programmes