Workshop 1: Making money work – creative finance 101 for entrepreneurs

This interactive and creative workshop peels back the curtain on the numbers behind the vision. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling something big, you’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and tools you can use immediately. No jargon. No spreadsheets (unless you want them). Just practical, energising support.

Key topics covered:

• Why businesses really fail: The practical reasons beyond cashflow.
• Hidden costs and silent profit killers: What to watch for and how to plan.
• Value add-ons: Creative approaches to boosting margins and profit.
• Finance 101 (without jargon): The key numbers every founder needs to know.
• Real-world case studies from SMEs and creative start-ups.
• Hands-on tools and templates.

Learning outcomes:

• Recognise the most common financial pitfalls.
• Gain practical confidence with simple finance tools.
• Build a personalised plan for financial clarity and growth.
• Take away practical templates and resources for immediate use.

About the speaker – James Meyrick

The founder of JCWT Consulting, working hands-on with SMEs, startups, and sole traders to help them plan, grow, and solve financial challenges, especially those without a dedicated finance team. His background covers over 15 years in business banking and finance with experience across the UK, US and internationally, including projects with major banks and fast moving fintechs. He has led teams in both traditional banking and innovative start-up environments so he understands what growing businesses need, whether they are looking for clarity, funding, or practical and jargon free support.

Now based in the West Midlands and active in both the Greater Birmingham and Coventry & Warwickshire Chambers of Commerce passionate about helping business owners cut through complexity and move forward with confidence.