The recession has hit the so-called “Y Generation” very hard (that’s people born between 1980 and 1994 in case you were wondering. I know I was!). There are fewer jobs – and certainly no job security.

The innovative TeenBiz scheme will enable one student per month to receive up to £500 funding, a business mentor and a start up pack, and aims to start 100 new businesses for under 18s over the next three years.

One of the things I keep asking myself while I am going through the EBA course is would I be learning these pearls of wisdom if I was left to my own devices? It is certain that much of the information is already out there in the form of books, downloads, web forums and countless other sources.

An interview with Bev James and EBA Member Oliver McNeil of Legend Photography.

At the heart of all financially and reputationally successful businesses is business planning. There are different systems and approaches people use or adapt over time but, essentially, playing your business forward with great business planning skills not only gives you the path to follow but it also keeps you on track and stops you being seduced or sidetracked by a new big idea or opportunity!