Y1Founder

The journey

Seven decisions. In the right order.

These are the decisions that actually matter in year one - structured in the sequence most UK founders face them. Start at step one and work forward, or jump to whatever you're facing right now.

  1. 1

    Sole trader or limited company?

    Before you launch

    The first decision every UK founder faces, and the one that affects your tax, liability, and credibility from day one. Here's how to actually decide.

    ⏱ Before you trade
  2. 2

    Business banking

    Before you launch

    Open a dedicated business account before you make your first sale. Here's why it matters and which UK accounts are actually worth considering.

    ⏱ Before your first transaction
  3. 3

    Accounting software

    Before you launch

    Making Tax Digital is coming for sole traders and limited companies alike. Here's what software actually works for UK founders, and what to avoid.

    ⏱ Before your first invoice
  4. 4

    Selling online

    At launch

    Do you need an online shop? How to take card payments? Which platform won't turn into a money pit? The UK founder's guide to selling online.

    ⏱ At launch
  5. 5

    Email marketing

    At launch

    Build a list from day one. Email consistently outperforms social media for founder businesses, and getting your UK GDPR setup right from the start matters more than most people think.

    ⏱ At launch
  6. 6

    CRM & sales

    After launch

    When you need a CRM, and when a spreadsheet is the right answer. The honest guide to tracking deals and managing client relationships as a UK founder.

    ⏱ Once you have prospects
  7. 7

    AI tools for founders

    After launch

    Which AI tools are actually worth paying for in year one, and which are expensive hype. An honest guide to AI for UK founder businesses.

    ⏱ Any time