94. How to write a business plan and manage cash flow in year one | Emma Jones

You can start a business for under £100, but building one that lasts requires navigating a minefield of practical, legal, and financial decisions.In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Emma Jones to break down the mechanics of turning an idea into a fully operational company. Emma walks through the real-world choices every founder faces. From writing a lightweight five-page business plan to deciding whether to trade as a sole trader or a limited company.Emma shares why cash flow, not profit, is the ultimate reality test for a startup, how to protect your brand name without spending thousands, and why bootstrapping for as long as possible gives you complete commercial clarity.This short episode delivers a practical blueprint for managing your admin efficiently, choosing the right insurance, and ensuring your business stays cash-solvent from day one.Timestamps (Audio)05:13 Sole Trader vs Limited07:50 Registering and Accountants10:08 Outsource and Hire Smart13:35 Protect Your IP17:13 Bootstrapping on a Budget19:02 Funding Options20:45 Costs, Cash and Getting PaidLinks Follow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Emma Jones on LinkedInFind out more about Enterprise Nation and the support they offer hereFind out more about the Small Business Commissioner hereSubmit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HEREAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk