As 2026 begins, many SMEs are facing uncertainty and tighter trading conditions. This article shares five practical steps to strengthen resilience, with a focus on cashflow discipline, forward financial planning, staying committed to long-term goals, improving efficiency through automation and reviewing debt to reduce pressure. It is a clear checklist for SME leaders who want to start the year with control and confidence.
Richard Olsen
Survival Funding: How to Secure Finance and Turn Around Your SME in 2026
Many SMEs are facing financial pressure as costs rise and lenders tighten access to credit. This article by UKBA advisor Rich Olsen explains how survival and turnaround funding can help businesses stabilise and rebuild. Learn how to identify the right type of finance, act early, and strengthen your company’s long-term resilience.
How to Fund Growth in 2025: Smart SME Finance Strategies for a Shifting Market
The business funding market has changed dramatically since 2020. Traditional lending is tighter, costs are rising and new finance products are multiplying. In this article, UK Business Advisor Rich Olsen outlines how SME leaders can develop smarter funding strategies in 2025. Learn how to match the right finance to your goals, avoid costly delays, and build resilience through a diversified funding mix.
The Effective Management Buyout (MBO) Guide for Small Business Owners
Selling your small business can be a daunting task, especially when you've invested your heart and soul into building it. However, my advice to every entrepreneur is to consider their exit strategy. This guide explores the benefits and steps of an MBO. Remember, UK...
Using Your Assets to Secure Funds for SME Expansion
I’m often asked about alternative ways to raise funds for business expansion. SME’s still struggle to access finance through traditional routes such as bank loans but one way to access the finance you need is to take advantage of your assets. Small and Medium-sized...
A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying the Perfect Buyer for Your Business
As a business owner, selling your business involves one critical task—finding the perfect buyer. In this guide, we will walk you through essential steps and factors, optimising your journey to maximize your business's value and achieve desired outcomes. Thorough...
Mastering Business Pivot: A Guide to Navigate Change and Seize Opportunities
We are often asked when is the right time to change a business, what are the signs to adapt? Pivoting a business—making substantial changes in core strategy, product offerings, or target market—can be the game-changer between survival and failure. This article delves...
7 next steps if you’ve been rejected for business finance
In a perfect world, every business would secure its funding choice immediately without a hitch. However, this is often not the case. Lenders and investors have set criteria they stick to when considering businesses, and not everyone will meet them. Funding isn’t an...
7 credit management tips for maintaining cash flow
Maintaining positive cash flow is integral to the long-term running of your business. It enables you to meet your financial commitments and keep your operations ticking. However, there are constant threats to cash flow. One that frequently affects businesses is late...