Meet Maria Ruseva: Making her dream reality with a handcrafted fashion business

Moda de la Maria is a fashion brand committed to crafting high-quality, timeless womenswear using natural fabrics such as silk, wool, cotton, and cashmere. Hear from Maria Ruseva, the founder, about how she stared the business, her challenges and achievements, and her advice for budding entrepreneurs! … More Meet Maria Ruseva: Making her dream reality with a handcrafted fashion business

Embedding Sustainability: A Cornerstone for Start-up Success

Are you a start-up business founder eager to cultivate enduring growth and long-term viability? Or perhaps you are driven to gain a significant competitive edge? Then, continue reading as the article delves into how proactive sustainability integration can propel your business without straining your resources. … More Embedding Sustainability: A Cornerstone for Start-up Success

Common mistakes entrepreneurs make – and how you can avoid them!

Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey is an exciting experience with potential opportunities and pitfalls. However, most entrepreneurs are confronted with traps that can ruin their success and threaten the sustainability of their business. At the Small Business Research and Enterprise Centre, we have seen the errors entrepreneurs commit and we have provided guidance in how they can be avoided. … More Common mistakes entrepreneurs make – and how you can avoid them!

Meet Helen Kamya: Supporting charities through her sustainable fashion

The LONDON E-Business Programme provides small business across London with support to develop their digital skills. Recently, our E-Business Adviser, Corinne McGee, supported Helen Kamya with understanding how to market her sustainable gym-wear brand, Unmatched by HK. … More Meet Helen Kamya: Supporting charities through her sustainable fashion

Access to Finance for Early-Stage SMEs: What we learnt at the conference

On 20 February 2025, we hosted the City of London Corporation’s first ever conference for SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises), themed around Access to Finance. Finding funding is one of the biggest challenges many business owners face as they try to start and grow their business, so we wanted to bring together industry experts, businesses, and organisations to share knowledge and make connections that would make it easier for the SMEs in the room to access the finance they need. … More Access to Finance for Early-Stage SMEs: What we learnt at the conference

6 reasons why markets are essential for growing your business

As a product-based business owner, it can be challenging to know where to start when you’re building your brand. One of the most effective ways to gain visibility, build confidence, and gather valuable insights is through markets and pop-ups. These events offer a wealth of opportunities, especially in the early days, and can be a key driver for growth. … More 6 reasons why markets are essential for growing your business

Meet Fabiha Khatun: Revolutionising financial education for young people through theatre

The Small Business Research + Enterprise Centre provides aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners with access to data for market research, free workspace in the City, and a range of events to support business growth. Recently, we spoke to Fabiha Khatun, founder of Money Talks Club, about how SBREC has helped her start and grow her business teaching young people about financial literacy through theatre. … More Meet Fabiha Khatun: Revolutionising financial education for young people through theatre

Why 2025 is the perfect time to achieve your small business goals

As we enter 2025, there is renewed optimism for businesses due to improved funding opportunities and market conditions following the pandemic. The new year represents a chance for change and innovation, encouraging entrepreneurs to embrace challenges and pursue their goals. With proper planning, 2025 could be a pivotal year for success. … More Why 2025 is the perfect time to achieve your small business goals

Meet Peter Magnani: Turning personal challenges into a supportive business

The LONDON E-Business Programme provides small business across London with support to develop their digital skills. Recently, our E-Business Adviser, Corinne McGee, supported Peter Magnani with his mental health-focused business, Beam, as he grows and scales it. … More Meet Peter Magnani: Turning personal challenges into a supportive business

The quiet power of journaling: Boost positive mindset by journaling into setbacks.

Nicky Torode, journaling and mindset coach, emphasises the benefits of journaling for entrepreneurs, particularly in fostering self-reflection and shifting perspectives on setbacks. By dedicating just 17 minutes to various journaling exercises, business owners can uncover insights and action points that promote a positive mindset and resilience, especially in light of World Mental Health Day. … More The quiet power of journaling: Boost positive mindset by journaling into setbacks.

Business Blueprint, part 3: Plan to Win – Why Business Planning Tools Are Your Secret Weapon

Starting a business is like embarking on a thrilling adventure. You’re the captain, the crew, and the treasure hunter all rolled into one. But just like any great adventure, a little planning can go a long way. Learn how SWOT and the BMC can help you create a solid business plan. … More Business Blueprint, part 3: Plan to Win – Why Business Planning Tools Are Your Secret Weapon