The test, developed by Cranfield School of Management, forms part of the National Small Business Week, a Government-backed event, taking place next April.

The quiz consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, designed to test small business owners and managers’ knowledge of areas such as accounting, regulation, legislation, management and marketing. Questions focus on issues such as working capital, copyright protection and motivating employees.

Respondents will also be able to compare how they did with results from other participants, through regular updates showing a breakdown of scores from different industries and different parts of the country.

The survey will be used to help shape the National Small Business Week, which is supported by the Department of Trade & Industry and the Small Business Service. The event’s dual role is to recognise the achievements of small businesses and support any skills gaps that exist. The survey will help identify these.

The event takes place between 28 April and 2 May 2003, with dates in Belfast, Bristol, Birmingham, Glasgow and Manchester and a 3-day event in London’s Earls Court.