Small corporate events agency

Mid-sized companies, associations and public bodies that run several events a year and want a dependable outside team.

Planning fees or retainers for regular clients, plus a margin on supplier costs such as venues, staging and catering, agreed openly with the client.

• Project management across several events at once
• Managing budgets and supplier contracts
• Leading freelancers or staff
• Winning and keeping corporate clients

• Public liability, professional indemnity and employer's liability insurance once you take on staff
• Cash flow, as you may pay suppliers deposits before the client pays you
• Check whether a private limited company suits you better than sole trader status
• Check contract terms on cancellation, attendee numbers and who carries the risk if an event is called off
• Check when VAT registration applies to you and how it affects your quotes

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your office, team and marketing. These are estimates. Plan your cash flow carefully, as you may pay suppliers deposits before the client pays you.

Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on how many clients and events you handle and the size of your team. These are estimates, and repeat corporate clients can help make income steadier.

Check public liability, professional indemnity and employer's liability insurance once you take on staff. Check whether a private limited company suits you better than sole trader status, when VAT registration applies, and contract terms on cancellation and who carries the risk if an event is called off.