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Free Business Tool

Startup Cost Estimator

Estimate your one-off setup costs, monthly burn rate, and funding runway. Find out how much capital you need to launch your UK business.

Updated April 2026🇬🇧 UK-specificFree Tool

About This Startup Cost Estimator

This estimator helps UK entrepreneurs calculate the likely one-off setup costs and ongoing monthly running costs of starting a new business. It covers company formation, premises, equipment, marketing, professional fees, and working capital.

Note: These are estimates based on typical UK startup costs. Actual costs will vary significantly depending on your industry, location, and business model. Always obtain quotes before committing.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. 1Select your business type (sole trader, limited company, partnership).
  2. 2Work through each cost category — premises, equipment, marketing, professional fees, and more.
  3. 3Toggle items on/off and adjust amounts to reflect your specific situation.
  4. 4The estimator shows total startup costs, monthly overheads, and recommended cash reserve.

One-Off Setup Costs

ItemAmount
Company registration (Companies House)
£50
Website design & development
£2,000
Logo & branding
£500
Initial stock / inventory
£0
Equipment & hardware
£1,000
Office setup / furniture
£0
Legal fees (contracts, T&Cs)
£500
Professional fees (accountant setup)
£300
Total One-Off Costs£4,350

Monthly Running Costs

ItemPer Month
Accounting software
£30
Office rent / co-working space
£0
Salaries & wages
£0
Marketing & advertising
£200
Website hosting & domains
£25
Business insurance
£50
Phone & internet
£60
Subscriptions & software
£100
Monthly Burn Rate£465/mo

Runway & Funding

6 months
1 mo24 mo
£10,000
£0£200k

Cost vs Capital Overview

One-off Costs6mo RunwayYour Savings£0k£3k£5k£8k£10k

Estimates only. Actual costs vary significantly by industry, location, and business model. Consider applying for a Government Startup Loan (up to £25k at 6% p.a.) if you have a funding gap.