Advice and Ideas for UK Small Businesses and SMEs
The financing channel looks at the different small business funding options available to start-up companies and established SME businesses looking to grow. Read a wealth of guides and tips to help manage your accounts and cash flow better, views on the future of business banking and where to source alternative finance.
Companies without assets to offer as security for conventional bank funding will be heartened to know that there's still another means of raising cash without giving away too much equity - the SFLG.
Government Grants
Business Loans
If you're looking to fund rapid growth your bank will probably be the first port of call. We find out what traditional lenders can offer and how to make sure you're getting the best deal.
Accounting
I want to set up on my own business contracting to two or three companies. I really don’t want to get in to IR35 territory.
Small Business Banking
Business credit cards provide a simple and efficient means to pay for business goods, services and expenses using a credit facility. SmallBusiness.co.uk and Simply Business explain some of the key features.
Accounting
Most directors believe that a limited company does what it says on the tin: in other words, they do not expect to be held personally liable for the company's misdemeanours. That could be a false assumption, writes Kelly Tinkler of solicitors Rooks Rider.
Accounting
What documentation can be requested from a self-employed individual as accurate proof of gross or net monthly/annual earnings?
Accounting
I am soon to open my company and keep hearing people refer to dividends as a method of payment for directors, whilst paying them around £5,000 per annum as a wage. Is this legal and if so, can you explain how this works please?
Accounting
Keeping a strong and steady flow of cash running through a business is critical to a company's long-term success, enabling it to pay its staff on time, fulfil new orders and purchase raw material and even new equipment. Here are a few simple steps to help you avoid the stress of cash drying up.
Accounting
I am soon to open my company and keep hearing people refer to dividends as a method of payment for directors, whilst paying them around £5,000 per annum as a wage. Is this legal and if so, can you explain how this works please?
Accounting
Keeping a strong and steady flow of cash running through a business is critical to a company's long-term success, enabling it to pay its staff on time, fulfil new orders and purchase raw material and even new equipment. Here are a few simple steps to help you avoid the stress of cash drying up.
Tax
What was the limit for business turnover for 05/06 when you can become VAT registered?
Government Grants
Where can I get information on government grants to help me and my small business?
Accounting
More and more people are escaping the daily nine to five grind and starting up their own business. Yet business owners should not become complacent once they have overcome the initial start up hurdles but should keep track of company performance. Here's how.
Employing & managing staff
In Aviva’s latest SME research*, 57 per cent of employers surveyed agreed that nowadays employees expect benefits to protect against loss of income or earnings. What do you offer your people?
Partner content
Business broadband offers a host of advantages over standard domestic connections, here’s why you should be considering an upgrade
Partner content
As with any supplier, it’s important to do your research and ask important questions before you select a broadband provider for your business. But what are the must-have things you should take into consideration?
Business Technology
Landlines as we know them will be scrapped in 2027 – along with a raft of upcoming business changes. Here's how to ensure your communications set-up is fit for whatever the future brings