Startups

We understand that no two startups are the same. Let’s give you the best start!

New Companies

Starting a new business is exciting but comes with its share of financial challenges. At Sheen Stickland, we help entrepreneurs and founders establish strong financial foundations that support growth, stability, and long-term success. Our aim is to simplify the complexities of accounting so you can focus on building your vision with confidence.

We understand that no two startups are the same — each has unique funding, cash flow, and operational requirements. Whether you’re developing a new product, launching a service-based business, or managing investors, we provide proactive financial advice and systems designed to evolve as your company grows.

From day one, we ensure your accounting processes are compliant, efficient, and scalable. By leveraging cloud-based software and real-time reporting tools, we give you instant access to accurate financial data to make informed decisions and impress potential investors or lenders.

Our Services

Bookkeeping & Financial Reporting

Accurate bookkeeping and clear reporting are essential for tracking performance and securing investor confidence. We provide timely management accounts, VAT returns, and statutory filings, ensuring your records remain fully compliant and up to date. Our approach keeps your business organised and audit-ready from the very beginning.

Tax Planning & Optimisation

Startups benefit from tailored tax planning that maximises early-stage savings. We help you navigate allowances, deductions, and reliefs such as R&D tax credits and capital allowances. Our experts ensure you remain compliant while structuring your finances for long-term tax efficiency and sustainable profitability.

Business Structure & Setup

Choosing between a limited company, partnership, or sole trader structure can significantly affect your tax position and liability. We guide you through every option, ensuring your setup supports your goals. We also help establish efficient accounting systems and registration with HMRC, setting you up for success from day one.

Cash Flow & Budget Management

Effective cash flow management is vital for startup survival. We assist in building realistic budgets and forecasts, giving you a clear picture of your income, expenses, and funding needs. Our advice helps prevent shortfalls and supports better financial planning for growth and investment rounds.

Payroll & Staff Setup

If your startup is growing fast, managing payroll can become complex. We provide a complete payroll service that ensures employees are paid accurately and on time, with all HMRC submissions handled for you. We also assist with pension auto-enrolment and staff expense management.

Growth, Funding & Exit Strategy

As your company develops, we offer ongoing strategic advice to help you scale effectively. From preparing investor-ready financials to advising on funding rounds or exit planning, our experienced team ensures your business remains financially strong through every stage of its journey.

Our Accreditation & Partners

Limited company vs sole trader

Choosing the right business structure and setting up efficient accounting systems early on are crucial steps we help you navigate. By partnering with us you can establish credibility with stakeholders, avoid costly mistakes, and lay the groundwork for long-term success. We work with modern accounting software and leverage technology to streamline processes and provide real-time insights into your financial health.

What our Clients Say About our Services

Andrew Minkow

We've used Sheen Stickland for many years to handle a number of services and provide advice related to all of our UK-based companies. Our team at Sheen has shifted over the years, but it has always been highly knowledgeable, professional, and consistently responsive to our needs, which have evolved and grown. Whether it's day-to-day bookkeeping, complex tax advice, payroll, or navigating UK-specific regulations, they always go above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Philip Haines

Taking over as Treasurer of a Community Benefit Society I was appalled at the fees being charged by this small firm of accountants who appeared to have no knowledge of our sphere of activities, imo. The Partner that was assigned to us was unhelpful and rude, imo. We terminated their services shortly afterwards and paid less in total for the 4 subsequent years, than with Sheen Stickland, in one year. The tax advice and service was also much better imo.

Private PA

We have been using the services of Sheen Stickland for a number of years, for tax returns, VAT returns, small company accounts and payroll. Paula Joyce and her team are reliable, approachable, responsive and a delight to deal with. They handle everything with a human touch and just make running our business so much easier. I can warmly recommend them.

H James

We have used Sheen Stickland’s services for our SME group for a number of years. The service they provide is excellent. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and quick to respond to any queries across a range of topics, with a wealth of expertise across their team. The team always ensure deadlines are met while accommodating timelines and availability on the client side. Highly recommended.

Gillian Silverthorn

I am so impressed with Sheen Stickland, I’ve never found a more professional company in my 45 years of business so I felt the need to review them and let them know. Mark Harding has been my main contact for personal and business accounts, he is super efficient replying promptly to every email or phone call. I honestly can’t recommend them enough Gillian