Sohrab Vazir
Consultant | Founder | Global Citizen | Writer
All posts by Sohrab Vazir
Choosing a Cofounder: Essential Factors to Consider
Starting a business is an exciting venture, but it often requires more than just a great idea. A cofounder can bring complementary skills, shared responsibilities, and moral support during challenging times. However, choosing the right cofounder is crucial to the success of your startup. Here are the some key factors to consider when selecting a cofounder. 1. Complementary Skills and Expertise The ideal cofounder should have skills that complement yours. For instance, if you’re strong in product development but lack marketing expertise, a cofounder with a marketing background can balance the team. Assess your strengths and weaknesses, then look for someone who can fill the gaps. Conduct a skills audit to identify areas where you need support before beginning your search. 2. Shared Vision and Values Aligning on the vision and values of the company is essential. Differences in long-term goals can lead to conflicts and derail the startup. Ensure that you and your cofounder agree on key aspects such as company mission, culture, and growth strategy. Think about the following: 3. Trust and Reliability Trust is the cornerstone of any successful partnership. Your cofounder should be someone you can rely on to deliver on commitments and make sound decisions. Look for someone with a proven track record of reliability and integrity. Red flags: 4. Conflict Resolution Skills Disagreements are inevitable in any business partnership. What matters is how conflicts are handled. Choose a cofounder who can approach disagreements constructively and focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame. 5. Financial Alignment Discuss financial expectations early on. Aligning on investment contributions, salaries, and equity distribution can prevent misunderstandings later. Be transparent about financial situations and willingness to take risks. Key considerations: 6. Work Ethic and Commitment A successful startup demands hard work and dedication. Ensure your cofounder shares your level of commitment and is prepared to put in the required effort, especially during the early stages. 7. Legal and Financial Measures Before formalizing the partnership, set up legal agreements to outline roles, responsibilities, and equity distribution. This includes: Having these protections in place can save you from potential disputes in the future. 8. Personality and Compatibility Your cofounder is someone you’ll spend significant time with. Choose someone whose personality meshes well with yours. While differing perspectives are valuable, fundamental compatibility is essential to maintain a healthy working relationship. 9. Industry Knowledge and Network A cofounder with experience in your industry can bring invaluable insights and connections. Their network can help secure funding, partnerships, and early customers. Consider: Does this person have relationships with investors, mentors, or advisors who can benefit the business? 10. Trial Period Consider working together on a small project before committing to a formal partnership. This trial period can help you evaluate whether your collaboration style and skills align effectively. For a starting point, develop an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or conduct market research together. Choosing the right cofounder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a founder. By considering these factors, you can build a strong foundation for your startup and increase its chances of success. Take your time, communicate openly, and ensure both parties are aligned on the vision and goals of the business. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
How to Create a Winning Business Plan for a UK Self Sponsorship Visa
If you’re considering the UK as your next destination for business growth and personal development, the Self Sponsorship visa could be your ideal pathway. This unique route allows you to establish and operate your own business in the UK without needing a third-party employer to sponsor you. Additionally, unlike the Innovator Founder visa, you will not need an endorsement. However, a well-crafted business plan is crucial for success. Here are some tips to guide you through creating a compelling and effective business plan for your UK Self Sponsorship visa application. What is a UK Self Sponsorship Visa? The UK Self Sponsorship visa enables entrepreneurs to establish their own company and sponsor their own Skilled Worker visa. This route is especially attractive for those who don’t meet the criteria for traditional business visas but have the resources and vision to create a UK-based business. A key requirement for this visa is demonstrating that your business idea is viable, scalable, and capable of contributing to the UK economy. This is where your business plan becomes essential. Why is a Business Plan Important? Your business plan serves as a roadmap for your venture and a critical document in your visa application. It needs to convince the UK authorities that: Key Components of a Business Plan for a UK Self Sponsorship Visa 1. Executive Summary The executive summary should provide a clear and concise overview of your business. Include: Make it engaging and professional, as it’s the first section visa officers will read. 2. Market Research and Analysis Showcase your understanding of the UK market with detailed research: Visa authorities will expect you to demonstrate a deep understanding of the market environment. 3. Business Model and Strategy Explain how your business will operate and generate revenue: 4. Financial Projections Provide a detailed financial plan covering the first three to five years of operations. Include: Ensure your projections are realistic and supported by evidence. 5. Job Creation Plan One of the most critical aspects of your application is demonstrating how your business will contribute to the UK job market. Outline: This section will show your business’s potential impact on the local economy. 6. Compliance with UK Immigration Rules Detail how your business complies with UK immigration requirements: Tips for Creating a Strong UK Self Sponsorship Visa Business Plan Common Mistakes to Avoid Creating a comprehensive business plan is a vital step in securing a UK Self Sponsorship visa. It not only strengthens your sponsor application but also sets a solid foundation for your business in the UK. By focusing on clarity, precision, and compliance, you can significantly enhance your chances of success. If you’re ready to take the next step, consider seeking professional advice to ensure your business plan meets all the necessary requirements. With the right approach, your dream of establishing a thriving business in the UK can become a reality. Need Help? I specialize in helping entrepreneurs create winning business plans. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four. I now help other entrepreneurs with their businesses.
10 SEO Hacks to Skyrocket Your Website Traffic
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is paramount to online visibility and digital presence. Regardless of your website’s purpose, nature, and scope of activity, SEO strategies can make the difference between being discovered and staying invisible. Utilize these 10 powerful SEO hacks to help you boost your website’s traffic and rankings. 1. Optimize Your Page Titles and Meta Descriptions Your page titles and meta descriptions are the first things users see on search engines. Make them compelling and keyword-rich to attract clicks. Include primary keywords naturally and ensure they provide a clear snapshot of what your page offers. Pro Tip: Use action-oriented language in meta descriptions like “Learn,” “Discover,” or “Get.” 2. Leverage Long-Tail Keywords Instead of targeting highly competitive short-tail keywords, focus on long-tail keywords. These are more specific phrases that often have less competition and higher conversion rates. Example: Instead of “shoes,” try “best running shoes for women.” 3. Create High-Quality, Shareable Content Content is king, but only if it’s valuable and engaging. Create comprehensive, well-researched, and visually appealing content that answers user queries. Pro Tip: Use infographics, videos, and images to make your content more engaging and shareable. 4. Optimize for Mobile Users With the majority of web traffic coming from mobile devices, having a mobile-friendly website is crucial. Use responsive design to ensure your site works seamlessly across all devices. Pro Tip: Run Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test to check your site’s mobile usability. 5. Improve Page Load Speed A slow website can hurt your rankings and frustrate users. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to identify bottlenecks and optimize your site for faster loading. Quick Fixes: 6. Build Quality Backlinks Backlinks from authoritative websites signal to search engines that your content is valuable. Focus on building relationships with other websites in your niche to earn quality links. Pro Tip: Guest posting and creating share-worthy content are effective ways to build backlinks. 7. Optimize Your Images Images can enhance user experience but can also slow down your site if not optimized. Use descriptive file names, alt tags, and compress images to improve load times. Example: Rename an image from “IMG1234.jpg” to “running-shoes-review.jpg” for better SEO. 8. Focus on Internal Linking Internal links help search engines understand your website’s structure and improve user navigation. Link related articles or pages using keyword-rich anchor text. Pro Tip: Each page should link to at least 2-3 other relevant pages on your site. 9. Use Schema Markup Schema markup helps search engines understand your content better and can enhance your search listings with rich snippets. Example: Add schema for reviews, FAQs, or events to make your listings more attractive in search results. 10. Monitor Your Analytics and Adjust SEO isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it strategy. Regularly analyse your website’s performance using tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Identify what’s working and what’s not, and tweak your strategy accordingly. Pro Tip: Track metrics like organic traffic, bounce rate, and conversion rates for actionable insights. Need SEO Help? I help clients boost their SEO and search engine visibility through content writing and tailored consultations. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. My business, which operated across 30+ UK cities, was highly reliant on SEO, enabling me to gain extensive experience in this field.
Business Plan Writing Services: What to Know
In today’s competitive business environment, a well-crafted business plan is essential for success. Whether you’re launching a startup, seeking investment, a start-up visa or looking to secure a loan, a professionally written business plan can make all the difference. This article explores what you need to know about business plan writing services, their benefits, and how to choose the right provider for your needs. Why a Business Plan Matters A business plan is more than just a document; it’s your roadmap to success. It helps you: What Are Business Plan Writing Services? Business plan writing services are professional firms or individuals who specialize in creating comprehensive and customized business plans. These services cater to a variety of industries and purposes, from startups to established enterprises looking to expand. Benefits of Using Business Plan Writing Services Key Features of Quality Business Plan Writing Services When choosing a service, look for these features: How to Choose the Right Service Costs of Business Plan Writing Services The cost of these services can vary widely, depending on factors such as the complexity of your business, the level of detail required, and the provider’s expertise. Prices typically range from $500 to $10,000. While it’s important to stick to your budget, remember that quality often comes at a price. When to Consider Hiring a Professional DIY vs. Professional Services While writing your own business plan can save money, it requires significant time and effort. Without expertise, you risk creating a plan that lacks clarity, precision, or depth. Professional services can help you avoid these pitfalls and deliver a plan that stands out. Final Thoughts A well-prepared business plan is a critical tool for achieving your business goals. Investing in professional business plan writing services can provide the expertise, efficiency, and quality needed to set your business apart. Take the time to choose a reliable provider, and you’ll be one step closer to turning your vision into reality. Business Plan Services I provide a full-dimension range of business plan services, from reviewing existing business plans to writing them from scratch. Find out more below, or contact me for an informal discussion. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four. I now help other entrepreneurs with their businesses.
Key Financial Metrics Every Business Plan Should Include: Healthy vs. Unhealthy Ranges
When writing a business plan, highlighting the key financial metrics is critical. Without a clear understanding of key financial metrics, it’s challenging to make informed decisions, optimise spending, and plan for growth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most important financial metrics to include in a business plan, including what healthy and unhealthy ranges look like, and how to use them to guide your startup toward success. 1. Burn Rate What it is: The burn rate is the rate at which a startup spends its capital before becoming profitable. It’s crucial to know how quickly you’re using up your cash reserves and how long you can sustain operations without additional funding. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: A good rule of thumb is to keep your burn rate low enough to extend your runway for 12-18 months before needing additional funding. 2. Runway What it is: Runway is the amount of time a startup can operate before it runs out of money, given the current burn rate. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Monitor your runway closely, especially when you’re approaching the 6-month mark. If needed, look for ways to reduce costs or raise additional capital. 3. Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) What it is: CAC is the total cost of acquiring a new customer, including marketing, advertising, and sales expenses. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: To improve your CAC, optimize marketing channels, focus on customer retention, and refine your sales processes. 4. Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) What it is: CLTV is the total revenue you expect from a customer over the entire duration of their relationship with your business. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Work on improving retention rates, increasing customer spend through upselling, and enhancing your product or service to keep customers longer. 5. Churn Rate What it is: Churn rate refers to the percentage of customers who stop using your product or service during a given period. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Focus on improving customer experience, customer support, and continuously adding value to reduce churn. 6. Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) / Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) What it is: MRR and ARR are predictable revenue streams generated from subscriptions or contracts, providing insight into business stability. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: If your MRR/ARR is stagnating, analyze your customer acquisition strategies, product features, and retention efforts. 7. Gross Margin What it is: Gross margin is the percentage of revenue that remains after accounting for the direct costs of producing goods or services. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Improve operational efficiency, reduce production costs, and look for ways to increase pricing or add value to your offering. 8. Net Profit Margin What it is: Net profit margin measures how much of each dollar of revenue turns into profit after all expenses, taxes, and interest. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Work toward increasing revenue while controlling costs. A path to profitability should be clear, even if it’s not immediate. 9. EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) What it is: EBITDA is a measure of operating profitability that excludes non-cash expenses and non-operating costs. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Focus on improving profitability by optimizing operating expenses and finding more efficient ways to generate revenue. 10. Debt-to-Equity Ratio What it is: This ratio compares the company’s total debt to its equity, indicating the degree of financial leverage. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: Keep debt levels manageable, especially during the early stages of your business. Consider equity financing over debt to avoid excessive leverage. 11. Working Capital What it is: Working capital is the difference between a company’s current assets and current liabilities. It measures liquidity and operational efficiency. Formula: Healthy Range: Unhealthy Range: Recommendation: If your working capital is negative, look for ways to improve cash flow, reduce liabilities, or increase assets. Conclusion Tracking key financial metrics is essential for creating a viable business plan. By understanding these metrics and keeping them within healthy ranges, you can make informed decisions about where to allocate resources, when to raise capital, and how to scale your business effectively. Regularly reviewing and optimising these metrics will set your startup on a path to profitability and sustainable growth. Business Plan Help I offer a business plan assistance service, including a financial evaluation of your proposition. My guidance helps you understand the financial health and metrics in your business plan. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. Currently, I help other entrepreneurs with their businesses.
Immigration Business Ideas: How to Get Started
Immigration business ideas are the first starting point for international entrepreneurs. With business immigration becoming increasingly popular, entrepreneurs are on the lookout for high potential business ideas. Exploring immigration business ideas involves various steps and considerations. As a former migrant entrepreneur and a consultant who works with foreign founders, business ideas are a core part of my work. I will highlight a number of factors to consider when exploring high potential immigration business ideas. These will help founders get in the right track and understand the various factors that they ought to prioritize. 1. Problem and demand The first key issue to consider is whether a business idea addresses one or both of the following: I have previously written an article on whether a business idea should always seek to solve a problem. In that article, I argued that while problem-solving is a sound approach to business ideas, it is not the sole determinant of a viable business concept. The key issue to consider when exploring business ideas is demand. If your product and/or service has demand, it will sell. 2. Compliance Immigration business ideas have to go beyond concept viability. They should consider the regulatory framework of the entrepreneur’s destination for business immigration. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the applicant’s destination country and its commercial laws is imperative. 3. Cultural comprehension Another key factor to consider in assessing immigration business ideas is understanding the destination country’s cultural landscape. Cultural dynamics, in many instances, shape a segment’s demands. For instance, a Muslim-majority nation is likely to have a demand for Halal foods. Similarly, a destination which receives a considerable number of Muslim tourists will see an increased demand for Halal products. 4. Immigration laws Lastly, it is imperative that entrepreneurs evaluate the immigration laws of their destination. My personal view is that entrepreneurship and immigration compliance are two distinct, and arguably incompatible, concepts. This is based both on my own experience as a migrant founder and clients whom I have worked with. I successfully navigated the UK’s business immigration laws as a migrant founder and obtained several business visas and permanent residence. However, this journey involved challenges that only those who operate within this space are able to comprehend. Need help with business immigration? As a consultant, I specialise in the commercial aspects of business immigration. I help migrant entrepreneurs validate and evaluate their business concepts, in addition to offering a range of other business services. Contact me to discuss your business immigration challenges, and we can explore the ways in which I may be able to assist. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming International Law
Abstract Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a disruptive force across multiple domains, and its impact on international law is both profound and multifaceted. This article explores how AI is reshaping international legal frameworks, practice, and principles, with a focus on regulatory challenges, legal accountability, and the ethical dimensions of AI deployment. The discussion highlights emerging areas of international legal concern, including cybersecurity, autonomous weapons, data governance, and human rights, while emphasising AI’s potential to enhance legal processes and global governance. Introduction International law traditionally operates as a framework to regulate the conduct of states and other actors in the global arena. However, the rapid advancement of AI technologies has introduced novel challenges and opportunities, fundamentally altering how international law is conceptualised, implemented, and enforced. Furthermore, it is imperative to note that the traditional framework of international law has been subject to challenges. One notable instance of this is the emergence and increasing role of non-state actors. Thus, the emergence of AI can be regarded as an additional factor which affects, and challenges, international law. As AI systems permeate areas such as military technology, global trade, and transnational crime, international law must evolve to address these complexities. AI’s Role in Shaping New Legal Paradigms Autonomous Weapons and the Law of Armed Conflict Autonomous weapons systems (AWS), which operate without direct human control, are reshaping the principles of international humanitarian law (IHL). These systems challenge the application of foundational principles such as distinction (differentiating between combatants and civilians) and proportionality (balancing military advantage against harm to civilians). AI and Cybersecurity Law AI’s role in cyber operations, including automated hacking and defence mechanisms, has intensified debates around the applicability of international law to cyberspace. The Tallinn Manual, a non-binding guide on cyber warfare, provides some clarity, but AI technologies push the boundaries of its relevance (Schmitt, 2013). The need to update existing treaties, such as the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, to address AI-specific issues. Challenges: Attribution of cyber attacks enabled by AI, as anonymity and automation obscure responsibility (Kesan & Hayes, 2018). AI’s Contribution to Legal Processes Enhancing Legal Research and Analysis AI-powered tools, such as natural language processing (NLP), have revolutionized the analysis of treaties, case law, and legal precedents. These tools enable faster and more comprehensive legal research, helping international courts and practitioners navigate complex legal landscapes (McGinnis & Pearce, 2018). Monitoring Compliance with International Agreements AI technologies, including satellite imaging and big data analytics, have enhanced the ability of states and international organisations to monitor compliance with treaties. For instance, AI can detect environmental violations by analysing deforestation or pollution patterns, aiding enforcement of agreements like the Paris Agreement on climate change (Vinuesa et al., 2020). Regulatory Gaps and Emerging Challenges Data Governance and Sovereignty The rise of AI has elevated the importance of data as a global resource, raising questions about ownership, privacy, and cross-border data flows. Current international agreements, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), largely address regional concerns but lack a cohesive global framework (Taddeo & Floridi, 2018). Accountability and Liability AI systems blur the lines of accountability in international law. When AI systems make decisions—whether in warfare, trade, or governance—determining responsibility becomes complex. Ethical Dimensions of AI in International Law AI Bias and Human Rights AI systems often perpetuate biases, which can have far-reaching consequences in areas like migration, asylum, and criminal justice. These issues raise concerns under international human rights law, particularly regarding non-discrimination and due process (Eubanks, 2018). Global Inequality The uneven development and deployment of AI technologies exacerbate global inequalities. Developing nations often lack access to AI infrastructure, leaving them at a disadvantage in shaping international AI regulations and benefiting from its applications (Acemoglu & Restrepo, 2019). Toward a Global Framework for AI Governance Given AI’s global implications, there is a growing call for a comprehensive international framework to regulate its development and use. Proposals include: Conclusion AI is both a challenge and an opportunity for international law. It necessitates a rethinking of traditional legal concepts, from sovereignty to accountability, while offering tools to enhance legal processes and global governance. The dynamic interplay between technological innovation and legal adaptation will define the trajectory of international law in the AI era. As the global community grapples with these transformations, a collaborative and forward-looking approach will be essential to harness AI’s benefits while mitigating its risks. References About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. I completed my LLM in International Legal Studies at Newcastle University. My thesis focused on how non-state actors change and challenge jus ad bellum and the use of force.
Solicitor Marketing: Tips and Tricks to Grow Your Practice
In today’s competitive legal landscape, effective marketing is crucial for solicitors looking to attract and retain clients. While traditional methods remain valuable, digital strategies have become essential for expanding your reach and building credibility. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and tricks to help solicitors market their services effectively. 1. Understand Your Target Audience Before diving into marketing tactics, it’s essential to identify your ideal clients. Consider: This understanding will guide your marketing efforts and ensure your messaging resonates with potential clients. 2. Build a Professional Website Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your practice. Ensure it is: 3. Leverage Local SEO Most clients look for solicitors in their local area. To enhance your local visibility: 4. Content Marketing Publishing high-quality content positions you as an expert in your field. Consider: Consistent, valuable content helps build trust and improves your website’s SEO performance. 5. Social Media Engagement Social media platforms offer a cost-effective way to connect with potential clients. To make the most of it: 6. Email Marketing Email marketing is an excellent tool for staying in touch with past and potential clients. Tips for success: 7. Networking and Referrals Word-of-mouth remains powerful in the legal industry. To enhance referrals: 8. Invest in Paid Advertising Paid ads can deliver quick results by driving targeted traffic to your website. Consider: 9. Monitor and Measure Your Marketing Efforts To ensure your marketing strategies are effective: Marketing for solicitors requires a blend of traditional and digital strategies tailored to your unique audience. By focusing on your clients’ needs and leveraging modern marketing tools, you can build a strong reputation and grow your practice effectively. Start implementing these tips today, and watch your client base expand! Solicitor Marketing Service I offer tailored marketing services for solicitors and law firms. Building on my law degree and experience as a technology entrepreneur, my range of services are multidimensional and specialized. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, with a client base in 50+ countries.
What I Offer Clients as a Business Plan Consultant
Working with me as your business plan consultant offers a number of benefits. As such, I believe it is useful to highlight what I offer my clients, whether they are solo entrepreneurs, start-ups or other businesses. As a consultant, one of my key areas of focus and specialism is business plans. Being a former technology entrepreneur has formed the foundation of my expertise in this domain. Let me briefly introduce myself. About me My name is Sohrab Vazir. I am a British-Iranian business and communications consultant and currently a digital nomad. I moved to the UK alone at the age of 17 in pursuit of further education. After completing my master’s degree at the age of 22, I founded and scaled a technology start-up in the property sector. My business received recognition from several stakeholders such as Newcastle University, NatWest, GBEA and approval from the UK Home Office for 3 business visas, leading to permanent residence in the UK. Following the 2020 Pandemic, similar to countless other business owners, I was left with no choice but to cease my company’s operations. Prior to this, we operated across 30+ UK cities, grew to a team of 4 and almost closed a funding round at the seed stage. However, this is the nature of business: things can go wrong. Afterwards, I began working as a business consultant. My initial focus was on international entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to establish their ventures abroad. Working with me as a business plan consultant It is important to state that obtaining business visas in the UK required me to create my own business plan. This was approved by both my university as well as the UK Home Office. Additionally, I have worked with founders moving to the UK, the UAE, Norway, Switzerland and the Netherlands on their business and plans. Therefore, I live and breathe business plans during the course of my daily work. As a business plan consultant, I offer the following: Guidance and advisory consulting I strongly believe that business plan writing services should be a last resort for founders. Granted, some founders may lack the experience or the time to produce one; especially when having to do so within a short timeframe. However, founders writing their own business plans benefits them in several ways. It develops your writing skills. Additionally, it enables you to be fully involved in planning your venture and conduct research. These are integral to your venture. I offer Advisory Consulting Programs and tailored consulting for founders who require help with preparing and drafting their business plans. In doing so, I utilise my 8+ years of commercial experience as both a founder and business consultant to help founders create solid business plans. Evaluation Building on the previous point, I offer business plan review services to founders. I offer an objective third-party perspective on your business plan, focusing on its viability and presentation. This helps entrepreneurs identify the flaws in their business plans. Writing And finally, should a founder require a written business plan from scratch, I offer this service. As stated, some founders, for a number of reasons, require another party to create their business plans. It must be noted that as I write each business plan myself, I only take a limited number of business plan writing projects, up to 13 orders per year. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.
Should Funding be Incorporated in the UK’s Innovator Founder Visa Policy?
External funding can be a useful factor to determine a founder’s suitability under the UK Innovator Founder Visa. Many start-up visa schemes around the world, such as Canada, implement funding as a defining factor for applicants. In this article, I will look into the values that such as an approach may offer as well as some of the drawbacks. The “Innovation” requirements & its flaws The current Innovator Founder Visa is primarily based on applicants having concepts and/or businesses that are: On the surface, these factors are logical. However, in practice, the innovation requirement presents certain challenges. The UK Government’s guidance for Endorsing Bodies interprets innovation on the following basis: Below is the precise wording of the guidance for Endorsing Bodies by the UK Government. However, the issue that arises out of this interpretation primarily relates to “replicability”. Unless a concept is protected by intellectual property (IP) measures such as patents, most, if not all, ideas can be copied. Therefore, there are two ways forward to determine innovation and the viability of a founder and their concept, and these are: Expanding the definition of “innovation” I have recently created a video on how the Netherlands has a more suitable interpretation of innovation compared to the UK. The Dutch Government defines innovation per below: There are several aspects which make the Netherlands’ definition of innovation valuable, and some of them are: -Taking social enterprise into account-Consideration of organizational and process approach Funding as a suitability factor? Incorporating external funding as a measure of startup viability in startup visa programs makes sense because it signals the following key indicators of a startup’s potential and legitimacy. Proof of Market Validation Ability to Attract Resources Job Creation Potential Commitment and Long-Term Planning Attraction of Strategic Partnerships Risk Mitigation for the Host Country Global Competitiveness Support for Economic Development Goals Nevertheless, implementing funding as a requirement, rather than a complimentary factor has its own drawbacks. This is primarily due to the fact that it is often difficult for founders to raise funding at the idea stage. Moreover, many concepts require the founder and operations to be based in the UK, in order to gain the minimal viability to qualify for funding from an investment perspective. Way forward With the current Innovator Founder Visa being launched less than two years ago, time is a key factor to evaluate its efficacy. Nevertheless, the current visa regime has flaws, particularly in relation to interpreting innovation. Ideally, a points-based system, where funding is an optional factor to score additional points would prove to be a more sustainable model. Entrepreneurship and start-ups are defined by the core factor of “unpredictability”, and therefore flexibility is essential. About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business under the endorsement of Newcastle University. I grew my business to over 30 UK cities, and a team of four, and also obtained my Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement) in the UK. I now help other migrant entrepreneurs, such as myself, with their businesses.