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Independent daily reporting that turns UK policy, tax, finance, employment and technology developments into practical points for small-business owners.
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What UK SMEs need to know now

£3m energy storage competition: what UK small businesses need to know
UK businesses can apply for a share of £3 million to develop ultra-long duration battery storage projects. Here are the funding limits, eligibility rules and September deadline.

UK inflation hits 2.9%: a five-point cost check for small businesses
UK inflation rose to 2.9% in July as energy bills increased. Here are five practical checks small businesses can make on costs, cash flow and pricing.

UK inflation rises to 2.9%: five checks for small businesses now
UK inflation rose to 2.9% in July after higher energy bills. Small firms should review cash flow, supplier costs and pricing without making rushed changes.

UK vacancies hit a five-year low: what smaller employers should do next
UK job vacancies have fallen to their lowest level in more than five years as smaller firms pull back on recruitment. Here is how SMEs can respond without losing future capability.

Making Tax Digital exemptions: what self-employed people should check now
HMRC has updated its guidance on applying for a Making Tax Digital for Income Tax exemption. Here is what sole traders, landlords and their advisers need to know.

Found an old R&D tax relief error? What small companies should do next
HMRC has updated its guidance for companies that need to disclose an excessive R&D tax relief claim after the normal return-amendment deadline.
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