PRE-LAUNCH NEWS
THIS ISSUE IN TEN
Just Starting Out is Starting Out 🚀
Inflation will never be Cool 😎
Rollercoaster 🎢
Cradle Cap to Company Creation 👶
Change isn't a Sign you're Lost, it's a Sign you're Learning 🥰
Seven Seconds 🕚
Summer’s Over but Learning Isn’t 📚
PUB Networking 🥤
Customer Care 🤝
Tom Hanks (not literally, although that is a good idea!) ⚽
Welcome to our Pre-Launch edition, we are so glad to have you with us, and so excited for our upcoming launch!
It’s time to bung the kettle on, pop your feet up and delve in…
LET’S GO!
Economy Quick Fire News
WHAT’S GOING ON OUT THERE AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU
Inflation nudges up again
Prices are still creeping higher- inflation is now at 3.8%. That means the weekly shop, fuel, and even flights are costing a bit more than last year. For start-ups, it’s worth keeping an eye on costs and making sure you’re not under-pricing your services.
Interest rates cut (but slowly)
The Bank of England has lowered interest rates to 4%. Good news if you’ve got a loan or are looking at finance- repayments may ease slightly. But the Bank is being cautious, so don’t expect rates to tumble quickly.
Mixed signals for businesses
Some reports say UK services firms are struggling, while others show overall business activity at its strongest in a year. For new businesses, this means opportunities are out there- but it’s important to stay flexible and ready to adapt.
Job market wobbling
Unemployment is edging up towards 5%, the highest since before the pandemic. For start-ups, this can be a mixed bag: hiring could get easier (more people looking for work), but customers may tighten their belts if job insecurity rises.
Donut Scoop
THE EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER OF STARTING OUT
Starting your own business is an exciting journey full of highs, lows, surprises, and everything in between. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement, uncertainty, and even a bit of overwhelm. The good news? You don’t have to go it alone. Our featured article from Start-Up Donut guides you through the essential sources of support available for new entrepreneurs- from mentoring and funding to training and local networks. Whatever you’re feeling today, there’s help ready to guide you through the next step
Success Story
CRADLE CAP TO COMPANY CREATION
This month we feature the powerhouse that is Charly Wheeler- a mum of five who, in a matter of months, turned a common parents dilemma into an award-winning skincare business!
Up and Coming
ONES TO WATCH FOR THE FUTURE
Founders Corner
‘IT NEVER TURNS OUT HOW YOU THINK IT WILL’
This month, Richard is at the mic sharing how change is to be expected when starting out
Business Bite, Pro Pointer
SEVEN SECONDS
‘It takes the average customer just seven seconds to form an opinion about your business’!
That includes everything- from the way you answer the phone to how your social media looks or how tidy your work van is. First impressions really count.
‘Pick one small thing that you could do this week to improve your first impression’
Perhaps you could record a friendly voicemail greeting, or order a branded T-shirt or name badge? These small things build trust, and trust builds business!
The Lecture Loop
CALLING ALL ENTREPRENEURS
Thinking of starting your own business? Chelmsford College is offering a free online Level 2 course designed to help you turn ideas into action. Learn the essentials of marketing, finance, and business planning- all at your own pace. Plus, you’ll gain a nationally recognised qualification and support from experienced tutors along the way.
What’s on?
EVENTS AND NETWORKING UK-WIDE
11th September 7.30pm-9.30pm - Powered Up Business Networking (Guildford)
Early evening meet-up for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Guildford- a mix of casual chat and professional support
13th-21st September- London Design Festival
This city-wide design event features talks, workshops and showcases all across London, perfect for those going into a design business
16th September - Funding and Support for your Business (online) 11:00-12:00
Discover the latest grants, advice, and support available to small businesses in this free online session from Bexley Borough Council
17th September - Belfast Festival of Business (St George’s Market) 08:30-13:30
Join hundreds of budding entrepreneurs and organisations at Belfast’s biggest business showcase
23rd September- Business Basics Masterclass (Antrim Enterprise Agency, NI) 10:00-12:00
Marketing, business planning and funding are some of the key discussion points in this informative workshop
21st October - Cardiff Womens Business Networking (Monmouthshire Building Society) 10:00-12:00
Connect with like-minded owners/entrepreneurs at this supportive evening meet-up for women in business
Course of the Month (September 2025)
OUR HAND-PICKED COURSE FROM OUR PARTNER-VIRTUAL COLLEGE
Outro
A FINAL NOTE AS WE SIGN OUT
“It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it.
The hard… is what makes it great”!
Until next time,
Just Starting Out’s News Scoop