SME Masterclass: Strategic Business Finance

About this course

The course introduces financial concepts relevant to small and medium-sized enterprises. Participants examine profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow and financial ratios, with attention to how this information can inform investment and cash-flow decisions. Teaching combines presentations, discussion and exercises. A spreadsheet activity provides practice in producing pro forma financial statements for organisational use.

What you'll learn

• Read and interpret profit and loss statements
• Assess and manage cash flow information
• Explain the purpose and content of balance sheets
• Use financial ratios when reviewing business information
• Produce simple pro forma financial statements using a spreadsheet

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for people in managerial or leadership roles within SMEs who want a foundational understanding of business finance. No prior knowledge of finance is required, and learning takes place through a combination of presentations, exercises and discussion with fellow professionals.

• No previous finance knowledge is required
• Intended for SME managers and leaders
• Includes discussion and exercises alongside presentation-based teaching

Before you go

• A Birkbeck certificate of participation is provided on completion.