With reference to Accord, outline two possible steps for Aran and Kayla in starting the business.

Other than a business angel (line 108), explain methods of external finance that Accord could use to increase production capacity (line 108).

PLEASE NOTE: Steps to starting a business is not included in the syllabus for 2024 exams onward. Related parts of this multi-part question may be used.

It is a partnership, so needs to incorporate:

• finding finance – needed for premise, equipment
• identifying/researching the market – it seems Aran has already done some of this but flawed
• building a customer base – gyms, etc
• creating a business plan.

Accept any other reasonable step.

Award [1] for each step up to a total of [2].

Award [1] for putting the step into context up to a total of [2].

Refer to Paper 1 markbands for May 2016 forward, available under the "Your tests" tab > supplemental materials.

• New partner. Realistic? Anyone suitable? May upset existing partnership.
• Bank loan. Difficult for small businesses, does not have much of a track record. Assets for security?
• Working capital sources (debt factors, reducing stocks, creditors/debtors) likely to be insufficient for the expansion.
• Grants/subsidies. Unlikely to be available.
• Lease rather than buy: often used for premises, so promising.
• Do not accept share capital – it is a partnership.

Explanation should come from how relevant the sources are.

Marks should be allocated according to the paper 1 markbands for May 2016 forward section A.

Award a maximum of [2] if the source chosen is internal.

Award maximum [3] for a theoretical answer.

Award maximum [5] if the answer is mainly descriptive but in context.