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.
Business Planning
The Value of Words: How Documentation Strengthens a Company’s Foundations
Clear, well-managed documentation is a hidden asset for growing SMEs. This article explains how good documentation improves efficiency, strengthens product development, supports customer experience and reassures investors. It also highlights how structured document management reduces risk and helps teams operate with confidence.
Mind the Gap: How Capability Analysis Can Help SMEs Grow on Purpose
Every business has hidden gaps — in leadership, teamwork, systems or strategy — that limit growth. This article explains how capability analysis helps SME leaders identify and close those gaps to build stronger, more resilient businesses. Learn how to shift from reaction mode to deliberate design, strengthening performance and leadership for sustainable growth.
Risk: The One Business Expense You Can’t Ignore
Many SMEs run lean and fast but risk is the one thing you can’t afford to overlook. In this practical guide, UKBA advisor Elliot Harris explains how risk shows up across finance, people, operations and reputation. He shows what simple steps business owners can take today to protect their company and future.
How to Create a Flexible Strategic Plan for SME Growth Introduction
As a digital strategist and marketer I have found over the years that strategic planning is essential for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) aiming to grow. Now research shows that SMEs with formal strategic planning processes experience significant benefits,...
How AI will transform your small business
How small business owners can use AI for success
If you don’t improve, you’ll lose out. Here’s a quick fix!
Using 5 Whys Analysis for business success
How a UKBA expert added market success, productivity, efficiency and £120k to a food company’s bottom line
Improving a food company’s Manufacturing Productivity, Efficiency and the bottom line – A Case Study of a UKBA expert in action
Top 11 strategies for taking your profitable business to the next level
Congratulations! Your company has transitioned from startup to profitability—a major milestone that few businesses achieve. However, with success comes new challenges, and the most pressing one's how to grow beyond your current level. Here are 11 things you can do to...