Budgeting and Forecasting for Business Success

If you're running a business without a clear financial plan, it can feel like you’re flying blind. This practical, jargon-free webinar will help you build a confident, flexible budget – even if you don’t think of yourself as a “numbers person.” You’ll learn how to forecast income, budget costs, and figure out what your business really needs to thrive – not just survive.
Whether you’re aiming for growth, looking to steady the ship, or simply want more control, this session will give you the tools to make smarter decisions based on facts, not guesswork.

Who It is For:
• Anyone who finds budgeting overwhelming or confusing
• Small business owners who want to start using their numbers with purpose
• Founders planning for growth, funding, or a more stable year ahead

In this session, you'll discover:
- Why Budget? And Why We Avoid It
We’ll explore why budgeting matters – and the myths and mindsets that often get in the way.
- The Building Blocks of a Budget
From income to outgoings, discover how to break your business down into key financial building blocks – including the important costs that often get overlooked.
- How to Estimate with Confidence
Don’t have perfect data? No problem. Learn how to build realistic estimates using different forecasting methods, past trends, and market insight – even if you're just starting out.
- Break Even & Beyond
Work out how much you need to sell to cover costs – then build on that to set profit focused, achievable goals that match your ambitions.
- From Numbers to Plan
Bring everything together into a budget that supports real-world decision-making – not just spreadsheets for their own sake.
- Keeping It Useful
A good budget isn’t set in stone. Learn how to review, adjust, and actually use your plan to stay in control – even when things change.

Key Takeaways:
• Understand why budgeting matters – and how it supports smarter decisions
• Break your business down into clear financial building blocks
• Forecast income and costs with greater clarity & confidence
• Know your break-even point – and plan for profit, not just survival
• Discover practical tools, templates, and habits to turn numbers into a flexible plan
• Leave with the confidence to use your numbers to plan, adapt, and grow

Jacinda Read is a former CFO and university lecturer, who now specialises in helping small businesses develop the financial skills they need to thrive. With over 20 years’ experience of managing company finances through various growth stages, Jacinda combines her practical expertise with her teaching skills to make business finance accessible, understandable, and relevant for small business owners.

For enquires, e-mail us on bgevents@bizgateway.org.uk

There will also be the opportunity to ask questions during the workshop.

Once you have registered, joining instructions will be sent separately.