UK-India trade deal is live: a practical checklist for small exporters
The UK-India trade agreement took effect on 15 July. Small exporters should now check tariffs, origin rules, pricing and paperwork before quoting Indian customers.
Salary details in job adverts: what SME employers should prepare for
Proposed pay-transparency rules could require salary information in job adverts. Here are the practical checks smaller employers can begin now while the detail is consulted on.
Payment times are improving, but SMEs still need to watch late invoices
New figures show large businesses are paying suppliers faster than in 2018, but 15 percent of invoices were still paid late in 2025. Small firms should use the data as a prompt to tighten credit control.
New trade call for input: why small exporters should respond before September
The government is asking businesses for evidence on future trade relationships with Indonesia, the Philippines, the UAE and Uruguay. Smaller exporters have until 14 September 2026 to feed in practical barriers and opportunities.
Pathways to Work Innovation Fund: what SME partners should prepare before September
The government says bids for a new GBP60 million employment support innovation fund will open in September. SME partners should start shaping evidence, partnerships and practical delivery ideas now.
Growth Guarantee Scheme expansion: what smaller firms should check before applying
The government says the Growth Guarantee Scheme will support significantly more SME lending by 2028/29. For small firms, the practical question is how to prepare before approaching lenders.
HMRC agent authorisation: what small firms should check now
HMRC has updated guidance on authorising paid tax agents. Small businesses should check who can act for them, which tax services are covered, and whether old adviser access should be removed.
New export finance scheme: what smaller UK firms should prepare now
UK Export Finance and the British Business Bank plan a new scheme for smaller exporters. It will not launch until spring, but SMEs can start preparing the evidence lenders will expect.
Interest rate warning: what small firms should check before the next Bank decision
The Bank of England’s chief economist has warned rates may need to rise again this year. Small firms should stress-test borrowing, cash flow and pricing before the next decision.
Local skills plans: what small employers should check now
Skills England has published 39 Local Skills Improvement Plans across England. Small employers should check whether their sector, vacancies or training needs are reflected locally.