Advice and Ideas for UK Small Businesses and SMEs
Sole trader
Is it possible to set up as a sole trader while still being employed full-time?
Startup Funding and Grants
You don't have to give up your dream of starting your own business just because a bank turns you down. SmallBusiness.co.uk takes a look at the other finance options available for ambitious start ups.
News
The majority of female owner-managers are focused on growing their businesses.
News
Modifying the existing Working Tax Credits scheme to support reduced working hours would help small firms.
News
A large proportion of SMEs are sympathetic to fathers having their paternity leave rights extended.
Business management
Electrical engineer Martin Dix had the bright idea for his energy-monitoring device Current Cost after wondering how much usage a 100-Watt light bulb represented in cash. Launched in 2006, his company is now worth £6 million.
Employing & managing staff
Holiday plans may be on the minds of many now that winter is behind us, but the majority of small businesses say they are unaware of entitlements going up next week.
Employing & managing staff
The recent sacking of 850 agency workers by BMW demonstrated how companies use non-permanent staff to protect themselves in a turbulent economy. But you need to know the pitfalls before hiring temporary workers.
News
Sir Alan Sugar's attempts to promote the benefits of apprenticeships would seem timely, as a new survey reveals employers are largely unaware of government reforms to cut bureaucracy in the system.
Office & home working
Office space costs can often leave companies with little room to breathe. Here SmallBusiness.co.uk and John Spencer, CEO of MWB Business Exchange, outline the potential benefits of serviced offices.
Small Business Banking
Do I need to open a business bank account or can I simply use my personal current account for my small business?
Tax
I heard that the government were helping small business by deferring payment of VAT. Is this true and if so, what is the procedure?