# How We Support Startups in Guildford’s Surrey Research Park

> Learn how we support startups at Surrey Research Park in Guildford with financial planning, forecasting and investment readiness.

Last updated: 2026-09-02

*Blog | by Rob Young | February 2026*

# How We Support Startups in Guildford’s Surrey Research Park

### Rob Young

Guildford has quietly become one of Surrey’s most exciting places for innovation and a big part of that is the Surrey Research Park and the close proximity to the university.

We’ve had the chance to work with businesses there and what stands out is the pace, the ambition, and the need for proper financial clarity from day one.

## Working with businesses at Surrey Research Park

Startups don’t have time for slow processes or unclear numbers.

They need:

•	Quick answers 

•	Clean financials 

•	A clear view of where they stand 

We support businesses on the park with everything from initial setup through to growth planning - making sure their finances don’t hold them back and they are fully prepared for that important investment pitch for additional capital.

## Supporting the SETsquared incubator

We’ve also worked alongside the business incubator at Surrey Research Park, part of the SETsquared partnership.

That means helping early-stage businesses:

•	Understand their numbers from the start 

•	Build realistic forecasts 

•	Get ready to speak to investors 

Because at that stage, confidence in your numbers matters just as much as the idea itself.

## Getting investment-ready (without the stress)

A lot of founders come to us with the same concern:

“Are our numbers good enough for investors?”

Our job is to make sure the answer is yes by helping with:

•	Clear financial models 

•	Cashflow visibility 

•	Structuring things properly from the beginning 

So when opportunities come up, they’re ready. However, another equally important role we have played for our clients is ensuring the numbers aren’t over-ambitious to create doubt in any investors thoughts. We use our own understanding and experience with businesses to review the key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure they’re reasonable whilst showcasing the exciting journey your business has ahead of itself.

## Why Guildford is such a strong base for startups

Guildford offers a really unique mix:

•	Access to talent (especially via the University of Surrey) 

•	A strong innovation network 

•	Proximity to London 

•	A supportive ecosystem 

It’s no surprise so many startups choose to grow here and we’re always keen to support them as they do.

Tags: forecasting, Guildford, management reports, startups

![](https://loveyouraccountants.com/asset/2401/175-175-def/author-rob_young.png)

**Author**

###### **Rob Young**

Rob is Managing Director at LYA, supporting ambitious businesses to scale with confidence through clear planning and proactive financial insight.
[Read more](https://loveyouraccountants.com/team-bio/rob-young)

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