Take the First Step Towards Starting You Own Business

Are you thinking about starting your own business, freelance career or side hustle?

Maybe you have a great business idea, but don’t know where to get started. Or perhaps you’ve become frustrated with the job search and have decided it is time to build your own start-up.

That is why Work Avenue has created Business Launchpad – a free business workshop designed to help you take those important first steps towards starting your own business.

Taking place on Tuesday 19 May 2026 from 09:30–16:30 in North London, this in-person, hands-on event will guide you through the key steps involved in turning an idea into a viable business.

You will explore your proposition, identify your target market, and gain a clear understanding of all those essential elements needed to run your own business – costs, pricing, marketing and, maybe most importantly of all, mindset. The day will include a mix of theory, practical exercises and group discussion, working both independently and collaboratively.

Sessions will be led by Work Avenue’s Head of Business Joanna Sadie and Business Adviser Kim Davidson.

Joanna said: “Business Launchpad is about giving you the space, structure and support to properly explore your business idea. Our goal is that by the end of the day, you will have a clear understanding of whether your plan is viable and how to get it off the ground.”

Kim added: “A central focus of the workshop is helping you decide whether self-employment is the right path for you, compared to employment, so you can make a confident and informed decision based on your goals and circumstances.”

Business Launchpad is ideal for anyone with an early-stage business idea, side hustle concept, or interest in freelancing or consultancy, but who may not know where to start. It is designed for those who have not yet begun trading or working with customers/clients.

Following the session, participants can access ongoing business support through free one-to-one Business Advice meetings, as well as Work Avenue’s wider programme of business workshops, webinars and events.

Spaces are limited and participants must be available to attend in person for the full day.

To apply for your place in this free business workshop and take the first step towards starting your own business, please click here: https://theworkavenue.org.uk/event/bl26/