From Seed to Sapling: six-week business support programme

From Seed to Sapling is a six-week business support programme for people who are developing a new business idea, preparing to become self-employed or taking the first practical steps towards launch.

It is designed to help you move from an early idea to a clearer, more confident and more viable business proposition.

Through structured learning, practical exercises and three one-to-one coaching sessions, you explore your customers, shape your offer, test your assumptions and create a realistic plan for getting started.

The programme is led by Mark Elliott FRSA, a business coach, mentor and former business leader with more than 30 years' experience supporting founders, freelancers and small business owners.

Mark combines strategic business experience with practical coaching to help people make decisions, build confidence and take meaningful action.

From Seed to Sapling is for aspiring founders, early-stage entrepreneurs, freelancers and people who want to turn an idea, skill or service into a business.

It is particularly useful for those who have enthusiasm and experience but need structure, guidance and accountability to move forward.

During the programme, you work on:

• Clarifying your business idea, purpose and goals.
• Identifying your ideal customers and the problems you can solve.
• Developing an offer that people will understand and want to buy.
• Exploring pricing, sales, marketing and how customers will find you.
• Creating a simple one-page business plan and practical launch steps.
• Building confidence in your decisions and next actions.

By the end of the programme, you will have a clearer business direction, a stronger understanding of your market and customers, and a realistic plan for turning your idea into action.

Eligibility requirements

For aspiring business owners who are ready to move from thinking to doing.