Technology News & Guidance

Pen-and-ink illustration of two small-business software developers discussing a phone and contactless reader, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured detail.

iPhone contactless plans: a window for small developers

by Alistair Cowen-Page
21 October 2026

Small developers can respond to the CMA’s iPhone contactless access proposals by 17 November. Check technical barriers and costs while final terms remain undecided.

Pen-and-ink illustration of two civilian engineers inspecting a portable power unit in a small workshop, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured detail.

Army power challenge: what small technology firms can submit

by Alistair Cowen-Page
16 October 2026

UKDI’s new Army power challenge has a 10 November deadline. Small technology firms should check funding routes, exclusions and eligibility before preparing a bid.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small business owner reviewing a folder beside a laptop, broadband router and desk phone.

BT/TalkTalk deal: small firms have until 9 October to comment

by Alistair Cowen-Page
8 October 2026

Small firms can submit evidence on the BT/TalkTalk deal until 9 October. Check existing contracts and current provider advice before making changes.

Pen-and-ink illustration of two engineers examining a sensor beside an airport baggage conveyor, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured detail

Transport security funding: what UK tech SMEs should prepare

by Alistair Cowen-Page
2 October 2026

UKDI’s new transport-security challenges offer a focused opportunity for tech SMEs. Check the project rules before the 29 October deadline.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a pub customer using a phone beside a verification reader, with small English and Welsh flags

Digital proof of age for alcohol sales: what small venues should check

by Alistair Cowen-Page
15 September 2026

Pubs and shops in England and Wales can choose digital proof of age for alcohol sales. Check registered services, staff procedures and costs before adopting it.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small business owner with a smartphone and laptop, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured element

GOV.UK One Login passkeys: a practical access check for small firms

by Alistair Cowen-Page
14 September 2026

GOV.UK One Login is expanding optional passkeys. Small firms should check device access and backup sign-in arrangements before making the switch.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small British technology team working on satellite systems, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured element

UK Space Strategy: where SMEs could find new opportunities

by Alistair Cowen-Page
8 September 2026

The UK’s new £7.8 billion space strategy could open supply-chain opportunities for smaller technology, engineering and professional-services firms. Here is what SMEs should watch.

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Fake job interview apps: five security checks for small employers

by Alistair Cowen-Page
4 September 2026

Criminals are using convincing recruitment approaches and bogus interview software. Here are five checks small employers can use to protect candidates, staff and their reputation.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small creative business team preparing to export digital work, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured element

New Creative Trade Forum targets export growth for UK creative SMEs

by Alistair Cowen-Page
27 August 2026

The new Creative Trade Forum and a further £10 million for Innovate UK’s Next Wave programme aim to help UK creative businesses scale and sell overseas.

Pen-and-ink illustration of a small business owner reviewing cyber security controls beside a power generator, with a small Union Jack as the only coloured element

UK power plant cyber attack: a resilience checklist for small businesses

by Alistair Cowen-Page
23 August 2026

A cyber attack reportedly took a small UK power generator offline for four days. Here are practical resilience checks SME owners can make now.