Build & Thrive: Step Up Ltd

Step Up: Ltd

Sole Trader or Limited Company: What's Right for Your Business?

A Free Business Support Programme for Eastbourne Businesses

You've built your business as a sole trader. Now you're asking the next big question:

Is becoming a Limited Company the right next step for my business?

For some businesses, incorporation can unlock opportunities for growth, improve credibility, provide additional protection and create a stronger platform for the future.

For others, remaining a sole trader may be the right choice.

That's exactly why we've created Step Up: Ltd.

Delivered as part of the wider Build & Thrive programme, this fully funded initiative has been designed specifically for Eastbourne sole traders and micro businesses who want clear, impartial guidance on their options.

Led by award-winning accountant and business adviser Chris Barnard of Collective Concepts Accounting, the programme combines expert-led learning with personalised one-to-one support, helping you understand the implications of both business structures and make an informed decision about what's right for you.

What's Included?

Choose the Format That Works for You:

In-Person Workshop

Attend a practical, interactive morning workshop in Eastbourne, designed around the working patterns of busy business owners and tradespeople.

Live Online Webinar

Can't make the workshop? Join the same session online in the early evening. Ideal for sole traders who can't step away from work during the day, have caring responsibilities, or simply prefer to learn remotely.

Both sessions cover the same core content, so you only need to attend one.

Free 1-1 Expert Mentoring

Every participant who attends either the workshop or webinar will (on a first come first serve basis) have the opportunity to sign up to 90 minutes of personalised online mentoring with an experienced business adviser. Mentoring will take place throughout November.

These sessions are designed around your individual circumstances and goals.

Whether you're:

• Ready to become a Limited Company and want tailored guidance on the next steps
• Unsure whether incorporation is right for you
• Planning for future growth
• Looking to operate more effectively as a sole trader
• Seeking clarity on tax, compliance, risk or business structure
• Our experts will help you explore your options and create a practical plan for moving forward.

What You'll Learn

• The key differences between operating as a sole trader and a Limited Company
• Tax, financial and compliance considerations
• Director responsibilities and legal obligations
• VAT, bookkeeping and ‘Making Tax Digital’ requirements
• The impact of business structure on credibility, growth and risk
• Common myths and misconceptions
• How to decide whether incorporation is right for your business

Why Attend?

• Get trusted, independent advice from an award-winning accountant and business advisers
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of becoming a Limited Company
• Learn what different business structures could mean for your finances and future plans
• Avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary administration
• Access personalised one-to-one support tailored to your business
• Connect with other ambitious Eastbourne business owners
• Completely free to attend

Who Can Attend?

• Sole traders who’s principle trading address is within the Eastbourne Borough
• Eastbourne businesses considering incorporation or planning for growth
• Early-stage and established Eastbourne businesses wanting to better understand their options

* Please note: This programme is only open to businesses who are located and trading within the Eastbourne Borough Council district.

If you’re unsure which local authority area you fall under, you can check your core business address postcode using the Find your local council tool on GOV.UK:

https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

Book Your Free Place

Whether you're ready to become a Limited Company, actively weighing up your options, or simply want expert guidance on the best structure for your business, Step Up: Ltd will give you the knowledge, confidence and support to make an informed decision.

Places are limited.

Register now to secure your free place.

*This programme is funded by Eastbourne Borough Council from local employment and training contributions generated from qualifying developments in accordance with the Local Employment and Training Supplementary Planning Document.