At the start of a new year, and as we head towards the end of the financial year, many business owners start thinking about growth. 

You may already have funding in mind - whether that’s a grant, a loan, or an investment - but feel unsure how to turn that idea into a clear plan.

Before exploring funding options, it helps to step back and focus on what you actually want to achieve. Funding doesn’t start with an application form. It starts with clarity. A simple, well-thought-out plan can help you move forward with confidence.

Here are five straightforward steps to help you turn your 2026 business goals into a realistic funding plan.

Step 1: Be clear on what growth means for your business

Growth looks different for every business, so the first step is to define what it means for you.
This might include:

•    Reforming your team or hiring new staff
•    Expanding into new markets
•    Developing a new product or service
•    Strengthening cash flow or financial stability

Being clear about your goal gives your planning direction and helps ensure any funding supports the right outcome.

Step 2: Turn your goal into something measurable

Once your goal is clear, try to make it more specific. This doesn’t need to be overly detailed or technical.

For example:
•    Increasing turnover by a set amount
•    Hiring two new team members within the year
•    Launching a new product or service by a defined date

Turning ideas into measurable goals helps structure your plans and makes funding conversations easier later.

Step 3: Understand what you already have

Before looking at external funding, take time to understand your current position. Many businesses underestimate the resources they already have.

Consider:
•    Your existing revenue and customer base
•    Skills and experience within your team
•    Time, capacity, and systems already in place

This helps you identify what funding you may need to support — and what you might already be able to progress without it.

Step 4: Explore funding options that fit your stage

Not every business needs the same type of funding, and not every growth plan requires immediate finance.

Depending on where you are in your journey, options may include:
•    Grants
•    Loans
•    Equity investment
•    Investment-readiness or growth support

At this stage, the focus is on understanding which funding options may be relevant, rather than choosing a specific route.

Step 5: Get support before you apply

One of the most common challenges businesses face is navigating funding on their own. Getting support early can help you:

•    Refine your growth plan
•    Understand your numbers
•    Prepare for conversations with funders
•    Avoid applying for funding that isn’t the right fit

If you’re considering investment as part of your funding plans, you may also find it helpful to read our article on Why Investors Say ‘’No’’ — And How Greater Manchester Founders Can Turn It Into a ‘’Yes’’.

The Access to Finance team at GM Business Growth Hub can support you through this process, offering practical guidance to help you plan with confidence before taking the next step.

A clear plan puts you in a stronger position to move forward and explore funding options that support your business goals in 2026.