About

Ben Lobel was the editor of SmallBusiness.co.uk from 2010 to 2018. He specialises in writing for start-up and scale-up companies in the areas of finance, marketing and HR.

Alternative finance

A guide to peer-to-peer business lending for SMEs

In this piece, we find out about the peer-to-peer lending market and how to benefit from it.

Government Grants

Small business finance: A list of grant and funding options

Here, we investigate some of the small business grants and options available in the market today.

International Business

EORI number: What it is and how to get or check one

Here, we go through all you need to know about EORI numbers, who should register, how to apply and where to go for more help

Business Technology

What broadband options are available for my business?

Here, we look at what types of internet connection you can choose for your company.

Marketing

Marketing planning: Getting your business the exposure it needs

SmallBusiness.co.uk speaks to company owners that focused on a strong marketing push and reveal essential insight into the paths they took to get the message out.

Tax

Five tax breaks commonly overlooked by small business owners

Here, we look at some key tax breaks that could save your small company money.

Small Business Insurance

What insurance do I need for a home-based business?

John Laird asks what kind of insurance he needs to run his business from a spare room in his home

Business Loans

Business loans for starting up abroad

Here is brief overview on getting finance for an overseas business in the UK – can you do it and what do you need to know?

Business Loans

Getting small business loans with bad credit

Even a small business owner with bad credit may need to borrow unexpectedly for stock or a sudden car repair. Where can you turn to for a small business loan with bad credit?

Sole trader

What is the definition of a sole trader and being self-employed

What does it mean to be a 'sole trader'? Is there any difference between a sole trader and being ‘self employed’?

Employing & managing staff

A small business guide to the National Living Wage

The new National Living Wage has come into effect for 2024/25. Elaine Pritchard of Moorepay explains what you need to know