The business idea
Dan James approached NBV in late 2016 for advice on setting up his own printing, packaging and marketing business targeted at SME’s. With nearly a decade of experience working to fulfil print demands of major brand names, Dan wanted skills support and help with cashflow for Hickman & James.
Dan was supported by his NBV adviser Glen Starbuck, who has given a new direction to the business.
The challenges
NBV’s support helped Dan to recognise the value of becoming VAT registered, and made the process easy with a recommended accountant. Dan was also able to apply for a small loan to help with any day-to-day cash flow issues on start up.
Dan’s support package included access to networking. His advice sessions with Glen have yielded a viable business plan and sales forecasts.
“NBV has given me the confidence in setting up my own business and meeting this challenge. Without them I would probably still be working for someone else.”
Programme impact
Dan has been able to start up and win new work with a solid support network and a future business strategy. The small loan has helped with short-term cash flow and wages to cover the steady growth of the business.
At this rate of steady growth, Dan hopes to employ a second full-time director by mid-2017 and ideally two to three further employees by 2018 to handle sales, accounts and potential design work.
Future plans include finding shared office space in early 2017 and winning more work to ensure Hickman & James become recognised as one of Nottingham’s leading print marketing agencies. Building strong customer relationships is a key part of this growth.
Visit Dan’s website here: www.hickmanjames.co.uk
If you would like to follow in Dan’s footsteps and benefit from the Start & Grow programme, contact NBV on: 0844 887 2568* or visit: https://nbv.co.uk/start-up/start-grow/