If you’re aiming to grow your business or secure premises, a standard CV or business plan isn’t enough anymore. Today’s funders and developers want one clear, compelling document that tells them who you are, what your community impact is, and why your project will thrive.
Introducing the Hybrid CV Business Plan: your essential tool for funding and space in regeneration projects.
1. Understand Your Audience
Funders need to see:
• Market understanding
• Clear social impact goals
• Well-articulated financial needs
Developers are looking for:
• Reliable tenants who bring local vibrancy
• Operational readiness (especially around childcare or other logistics)
2. What to Include in Your Hybrid CV
Each section below helps you build a document that speaks directly to funders and developers
Personal & Professional Snapshot
A quick 2–3 sentence pitch about you and your business
Why it matters: It sets the tone and clearly shows your mission
Tips:
• Start with your name and role
• Highlight what you do and your unique value
Example:
“I’m Amina Ahmed, founder of Soul Spa London, a mobile wellness service bringing yoga and mindfulness to families across South London. With 10+ years in community wellbeing, I design child‑friendly sessions that promote rest and resilience.”
Mission & Social Impact
A short statement about your purpose and outcomes
Why it matters: Shows alignment with funders’ and developers’ goals
Tips:
• Use bullet points for impact metrics
• Emphasise inclusivity and local benefit
Example:
Mission: “To build safe, nurturing spaces that support the wellbeing of South London families.”
Impact:
• 200+ participants in free mindfulness sessions
• 2 partnerships with local youth centres
• 3 community ambassadors trained
Skills, Experience & Portfolio
Showcase qualifications, experience, and past projects
Why it matters: Builds credibility
Tips:
• List formal qualifications
• Highlight 2–3 successful projects
• Add logos or images if you can
Example:
Qualifications: Level 3 Yoga Teaching Certificate, Diploma in Community Development
Projects:
• “Wellness Pop‑Up” at Peckham Library: 80 attendees, 4 press features
• “Mindful Mornings” mobile series: sessions across 3 boroughs for 6 months
Business Proposition & Market Analysis
Outline your market, competition, and growth opportunity
Why it matters: Shows you’ve done your research
Tips:
• Summarise trends
• Include a mini SWOT
Example:
Market Need: “20% increase in families seeking weekend wellness activities in Southwark”
SWOT:
Strengths: Community networks, mobile flexibility
Weaknesses: No permanent venue
Opportunities: New spaces in London Bridge
Threats: High rent, seasonal dips
Operations & Logistics
Explain how your business runs day-to-day
Why it matters: Gives confidence in your readiness
Tips:
• Be clear on hours and roles
• Mention your supply chain
Example:
Hours: Wed–Sun, 9am–6pm
Team: Lead instructor plus two assistants
Suppliers: Local eco-friendly wellness vendors
Financial Plan & Funding Request
Summarise financials, including what you’re asking for
Why it matters: Demonstrates financial planning and needs
Tips:
• Use a simple cost table
• State your funding ask clearly
Example:
|
Item |
Cost (£) |
Timeframe |
|
Café Fit‑Out |
12,000 |
3 months |
|
Equipment & Stock |
3,000 |
1 month |
|
Marketing & Launch |
2,000 |
2 months |
|
Total |
17,000 |
Break-even: Month 9 post-launch
Testimonials & Partnerships
Feature short endorsements and logos
Why it matters: Adds trust and social proof
Example:
“Soul Spa London transformed our community centre events!” – Sarah K., Peckham Youth Leader
Ready to move forward?
• Book a 1:1 session with Tree Shepherd experts: treeshepherd.org.uk/bookings
• Join one of our practical workshops or mentoring sessions
• We’re also developing a new Checklist tool that will bring all of these planning areas together in one place. Stay tuned on our socials for its release
Presenting a combined CV and business plan, supported by Tree Shepherd’s guidance, helps you stand out as both a visionary entrepreneur and a dependable partner
Tree Shepherd is here to support you. Book a session, join a workshop, or get started at treeshepherd.org.uk
