100-task framework tracking business fundamentals and kick-off readiness across all VRL stages. Go-to-market and scaling tasks (Stage 4) are managed in the Brand Execution Platform.
Brand Execution Platform
Articulate the core problem, proposed solution, and target market in a one-page concept brief.
Incorporate the business entity with Companies House or relevant authority.
Open a dedicated business bank account for the venture.
Document the founding team, their roles, equity split, and vesting schedule.
Legal agreement covering equity, IP assignment, decision-making, and exit provisions.
Select and validate the venture brand name — check trademark availability and domain.
File a provisional trademark application for the venture name and logo.
Document the core technology IP and file a provisional patent application.
Write the venture's sustainability mission statement and initial ESG commitments.
Estimate the total addressable market, serviceable addressable market, and SOM.
Define the primary customer personas and their key pain points.
Identify and document 5 direct or indirect competitors with a brief competitive analysis.
Complete a first-pass Business Model Canvas covering all 9 building blocks.
Build a basic 12-month revenue and cost projection model.
Define the initial funding requirement and identify potential sources (grants, angels, VC).
Identify and apply for at least one relevant innovation grant.
Identify at least one university or research institution as a potential partner.
Assess the current Technology Readiness Level and set a 12-month TRL target.
Implement a basic accounting system (Xero, QuickBooks, or equivalent).
Register for VAT with HMRC or relevant authority if turnover threshold applies.
Set 5–10 key performance indicators for the first 12 months.
Document the top 10 risks with likelihood, impact, and initial mitigation plans.
Recruit at least 2 advisors with relevant industry or technical expertise.
Implement basic GDPR compliance: privacy policy, data processing register, cookie policy.
Compile the evidence required to advance from VRL Stage 1 to Stage 2.
Run structured customer discovery interviews and document key insights.
Create a working proof-of-concept demonstrating the core technology or product.
Confirm that the proposed solution addresses the identified customer problem.
Create a technical datasheet suitable for OEM or partner discussions.
Initiate conversations with at least 3 potential OEM, distribution, or channel partners.
Convert provisional patent to a full patent application.
Create the ingredient brand identity: name, logo, and visual system for B2B use.
Document the brand guidelines: logo usage, colour palette, typography, tone of voice.
Link peer-reviewed papers to the core technology claims via the Academic Research module.
Identify all relevant regulations, certifications, and compliance requirements.
Revise the financial model based on customer discovery and prototype cost data.
Close initial funding round (grant, angel, or pre-seed VC).
Sign a Memorandum of Understanding with at least one academic partner.
Complete an FMEA analysis for the core technology failure modes.
Set measurable sustainability KPIs and record baseline environmental impact data.
Make the first strategic hire to fill the most critical capability gap.
Implement payroll system and issue employment contracts for all staff.
Create a 10–12 slide investor pitch deck for seed-stage fundraising.
Identify the key certifications required (ISO, B Corp, CE, etc.) and begin the process.
Produce a detailed competitive analysis with positioning map.
Establish the pricing model, cost of goods sold, and gross margin targets.
Ensure all founders, employees, and contractors have signed IP assignment agreements.
Implement a basic CRM to track customer and partner conversations.
Compile the evidence required to advance from VRL Stage 2 to Stage 3.
Mark all Stage 2 Playbook milestones as complete in the EcoBlend Playbook module.
Develop and launch the MVP with the minimum feature set required for market validation.
Secure a signed pilot agreement or letter of intent from a target customer or OEM partner.
Complete the B Impact Assessment and submit the B Corp application.
Launch the venture website with core messaging, product/service overview, and contact form.
Update the investor pitch deck to Series A standard with traction data.
Establish the ESOP scheme and issue options to key employees.
Mark all Stage 3 Playbook milestones as complete.
Obtain ISO 14001 Environmental Management System certification.
Define and document the manufacturing or production process with quality controls.
Negotiate and sign contracts with key suppliers and manufacturers.
Receive granted patent status for core technology IP.
Close the seed or Series A funding round.
Appoint a formal board of directors with at least one independent non-executive director.
Publish the first annual impact report covering sustainability, social, and governance metrics.
Record the first commercial revenue from a paying customer.
Establish a quality management system aligned to ISO 9001.
Perform a comprehensive FMEA review and update the risk register with MVP learnings.
Document the go-to-market channel strategy and distribution model.
Recruit a dedicated commercial lead to drive revenue growth.
Define the customer onboarding, support, and success process.
Compile the evidence required to advance from VRL Stage 3 to Stage 4.
Secure appropriate product liability, professional indemnity, and business insurance.
Deploy an ERP or operations management system to support scaling.
Sign a strategic partnership or joint venture agreement with a key industry partner.
Mark all Stage 4 Playbook milestones as complete.