Articles and News
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Paid vs Organic Marketing: How SMEs Should Decide What to Do Next
Many established SMEs reach a point where marketing decisions feel harder and less effective. This article explores how businesses at a point of transition can make clearer choices between organic and paid marketing by starting with intent, not activity, and aligning marketing decisions with wider commercial goals.
Why SME Leaders Should Use the Penultimate Month to Set Strategic Direction
For many SMEs, strategy is left until the new financial year has already begun. This article explains why the penultimate month of the accounting year is often the best time to think strategically. Using real year-end insight rather than early-year assumptions, it shows how SME leaders can separate strategy from business planning, test long-term direction and make better decisions in uncertain conditions.
How a NED helps SME owners make better decisions and grow with less risk
Many SME owners see Non-Executive Directors as something for “bigger” firms. In practice, the right board-level support can improve decision quality, reduce risk and help leaders step out of firefighting mode. This article explains what a NED really brings, how a NED differs from an advisor and how UK Business Advisors provide practical board-level challenge without forcing unnecessary formality.
Calling all SMEs: Set Yourself up for Success in 2026
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.
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.
Budget 2025: What UK SMEs Need to Know About New R&D Funding Priorities
The 2025 Budget increases public R&D spending to £22.6 billion and places strong emphasis on eight priority sectors identified in the Government’s Industrial Strategy. This article explains what innovative SMEs need to know, how funding will be targeted and what steps businesses should take to align with upcoming Innovate UK and UKRI programmes.
Top 5 Benefits of ISO Certification for SMEs: How Standards Strengthen Growth and Competitiveness
ISO certification delivers real advantages for SMEs, from improving consistency and winning more customers to opening access to larger contracts and new markets. This article explains the top five benefits, the common problems SMEs face without certification and how ISO helps solve them. Ideal for leaders looking to strengthen quality, trust and growth in their business.
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 Scale Your SME with Confidence: A Practical Guide for Sustainable Growth
Scaling your SME in 2025 takes more than ambition — it takes clarity, discipline and confidence. This article explores how UK business owners can strengthen foundations, go digital with purpose, and manage cash flow to grow sustainably. Learn how to combine people, process and purpose to scale up without losing control.
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