Start-Up Costs Calculator

Launching a business is exciting – but the numbers can feel overwhelming. This simple calculator helps you estimate how much cash you’ll need to get off the ground and how long your money is likely to last once you’re open.

Use it to get a quick feel for:

  • One-off set-up costs like branding, website, equipment and fit-out

  • Monthly running costs like rent, software, utilities and staff

  • Your “runway” – how many months your savings might realistically cover

How to use this calculator

  1. Adjust the sliders in each section to match your business as closely as you can.

  2. Check the summary to see your total start-up costs, monthly running costs and recommended minimum cash.

  3. Look at your runway (how many months your cash might last) and whether there’s a gap to fill with savings, funding or extra planning.

This tool is designed as a starting point – it won’t be perfect, but it will give you a much clearer picture than guessing in your head.

Start-Up Costs Calculator

Use the sliders to estimate how much it will cost to launch and how long your cash will last once you’re open.

One-off start-up costs

Move the sliders to get a rough idea of your one-off launch costs.

Company formation, licences, legal checks.
Logo, brand assets, website build.
Kit, hardware, tools, machinery.
Products, consumables, materials.
Furniture, décor, signage, fit-out.
Initial ads, flyers, launch promos.
Anything else you’ll only pay once.

Monthly running costs

These are your typical monthly costs once you’re trading.

Rent, business rates (if separate).
Electricity, water, phone, internet.
Booking systems, POS, tools, apps.
Professional, public liability, etc.
Wages, PAYE, contractor fees.
Mileage, transport, delivery runs.
Loan, HP, lease agreements.
Anything else that repeats each month.

Cash & runway

Estimate how long your cash will last once you’ve covered your start-up spend.

Money you’ve already put aside for the business.
If you want to pay yourself from day one.
Calculates your start-up and monthly costs.
This calculator is for guidance only and does not replace advice from an accountant or financial adviser.

This calculator is for guidance only and does not replace advice from an accountant, financial adviser or lender. We’ll always encourage you to get professional financial or tax advice before making major decisions.

What to do with your numbers

Seeing the real costs of starting up can feel like a relief – or a bit daunting. Either way, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

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