Part 1: The challenges of getting into business 1. How do you find a good business idea? 2. Do you have the right personal qualities for success? 3. Is there a market opportunity in your business sector? 4. What is your business model and market entry strategy? 5. Can you make a profit? 6. What is the most appropriate legal form for your business? Part 2: The challenges of growing the business 7. Are you in good financial health? 8. Do you know how you win business? 9. How can you further develop your distinctiveness? 10. What is changing in your business environment? 11. What is your growth strategy? 12. Can you develop a balanced management team? 13. How do you fund growth? Part 3: The challenges of deciding whether to re-invest or exit 14. Are you a 'big small business' or a 'small big business'? 15. Can you change from owner to manager? 16. What are your options for realizing value?

Aimed at students of small business management and enterprise development interested in or planning to start their own business, and at owner/managers of existing businesses, this book offers a detailed insight into key challenges to be faced, explains solutions to those challenges, and maps out a route to success. The three section framework addresses all the key issues involved in creating a professional and successful firm, looking at: the challenges of starting a business; the challenges of growing a business; and, finally, the challenges of deciding whether to sell or re-invest in the business. The book is written in an accessible style, pitched perfectly for its audience, and introduces theory for the purposes of practical implementation. An excellent range of pedagogy supports the text including many case examples to illustrate key points. Companies featured include: Cobra Beer, Moonpig, Hotel Chocolat and Fitness Express.