As an accredited Train to Gain provider, we can now deliver a range of strategic planning services that are part-funded by the government. There has never been a better time to get your business plans and strategic forecasts in order. Read on to find out more…

In addition to providing the more familiar employee-focused grants for basic skills training, the government’s Train to Gain scheme also offers a Leadership and Management programme, which can be used to fund training for company directors and senior management.

Last month we talked about the One Page Plan, a deceptively simple planning tool used by many of the world’s leading companies. It literally holds all the key information that is unique to a business on one page, incorporating financial and non-financial performance indicators as well as showing the value of the business. Its scope and size reveal the status of a business at a glance, helping to inform decision making and acting as a blueprint for business growth.

Another strategic planning service that we offer, which also qualifies for the Train to Gain grant, is financial forecasting. This invaluable tool maps out the future targets for a business, showing the impact of variables such as new customers, and acting as an early warning system for cashflow. Furthermore, it provides targets against which actual performance can be benchmarked, helping to isolate strengths and weaknesses within the organisation.

However the funding isn’t limited to specific services, which means that our strategic business planning service also qualifies. A business plan should describe how the business operates, w hat the structure is, who the key players are, the short and long term strategy, areas of competitive advantage and comparisons with rivals, as well as projected and actual financial performance. Similar to the One Page Plan and forecasts, a business plan is more than just a leverage tool for investors: it can inform sound decision making and actively promote business growth.

Since we’ll be leading you through the process of creating and implementing these kinds of strategic planning tools, the training element of our service fulfils the leadership and management criteria set by the government – which is why we can offer you £1,500 worth of service for just £500, plus the VAT on the total fee.

To find out more about how to benefit from this business-boosting service, contact our Business Advisory team.