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Business Valuation Basics

As a business owner, understanding the true value of your company is more than just a financial exercise—it’s a critical step towards making informed decisions, planning for sustainable growth, and positioning your business for long-term success. Whether you’re preparing for an investment, planning an exit, or simply wanting to gain a clearer picture of your company’s worth, having this knowledge empowers you to take control of your future.

In this insightful talk, we will explore the concept of business valuation and its significance in the entrepreneurial world. Valuation isn’t just for large corporations—it applies to every ambitious business owner striving to grow, adapt, and thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

We’ll begin by breaking down the key factors that influence business valuation, giving you a comprehensive understanding of what drives your company’s value. From your financial performance and current industry trends to the strength of your customer base and the impact of intellectual property, we’ll examine the core elements that determine how much your business is truly worth.

Understanding the various valuation methods is equally essential, and we’ll explore the three most widely used approaches: the income approach, the market approach, and the asset-based approach. I’ll explain these methods in detail, ensuring you gain practical knowledge to identify which approach best aligns with your business model, sector, and growth stage.

But valuation isn’t just about where your business stands today—it’s also about anticipating its future worth. We’ll look at the importance of projecting future business valuation by factoring in growth rates, shifting market conditions, and your own strategic plans. By thinking ahead, you’ll be better equipped to prepare for opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

To ensure you leave with real, practical value, I’ll share actionable strategies to increase your business valuation. From optimising profitability and improving cash flow to reducing operational risks and identifying new market opportunities, you’ll discover proven methods to enhance your company’s appeal to investors, buyers, and stakeholders.

This session is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and a clear roadmap to elevate the value of your business. Whether you’re a start-up looking for growth, a scale-up preparing for investment, or an established business exploring exit opportunities, you’ll leave with tangible insights to help you maximise your company’s worth.

You can read more about the University of Hertfordshire's Business Incubator here.