When to Incorporate? Funding Paths and the Personal Guarantee - BGWM IR

Join us to explore the options open to you as an entrepreneur. Just what does it mean to be a sole trader as opposed to being incorporated, and to consider different funding pathways open to both. We’ll also assess just what the implications are when providing a Personal Guarantee.

When to Incorporate? Alternate Funding Paths and the Personal Guarantee

Thinking about incorporating your business but unsure when to take the leap? Join us for this essential session designed specifically for early-stage UK entrepreneurs navigating one of the most crucial decisions in your business journey.

We'll explore the strategic timing of incorporation and help you understand when it makes financial and legal sense to transition from sole trader to limited company. You'll gain clarity on the various funding routes available beyond high street banks—from bootstrapping and angel networks to Innovate UK grants, crowdfunding, and alternative lenders—and learn how your business structure impacts your access to each.

We'll also address one of the most critical yet often misunderstood aspects of business finance: the personal guarantee. Learn what you're actually committing to when lenders or landlords request your personal guarantee, how it affects your personal finances and credit rating, and practical strategies to protect yourself whilst securing the capital your business needs.

What You'll Learn:

· When sole trader status makes sense versus incorporating as a limited company

· Tax implications and advantages of different business structures

· UK-specific funding options including Start Up Loans, angel investors, VCs, and government schemes

· How Companies House registration affects your funding opportunities

· The reality of personal guarantees and director's guarantees in the UK context

· Protecting your personal assets whilst growing your business

· Real stories from UK founders who've successfully navigated these decisions

Whether you're launching your first venture or a repeat entrepreneur this session will empower you with the knowledge to make confident decisions about incorporation and funding.

Perfect for: Aspiring entrepreneurs, sole traders, freelancers, start-up founders, and anyone in the early stages of building a UK business.

Kindly note that we ask all attendees to complete a Client Application Form before joining one of our workshops. Once you've booked your ticket, one of our Business Finance Specialists will be in touch.