Coffee Snobs is a co founded business run by two best friends who met at university. After consuming copious amounts of bad coffee to fuel late night studying they decided to do something about the whole coffee industry and start the business that they had dreamed of. … More Meet Coffee Snobs: From craving great coffee to crafting it for all
At Creare Capital, a lot of time is spent thinking about how creative businesses grow, and, crucially, why so many promising ideas struggle to get off the ground. The government’s new Creative Industries Sector Plan offers a refreshed plan for tackling the challenges facing the sector but if you are launching your creative business now what can you do to overcome these funding barriers? Here are some practical steps that early-stage creative founders can take. … More Funding your creative business: Navigating challenges and building confidence
In today’s hyper-competitive digital world, having a social media presence isn’t enough. Start-ups and SMEs that succeed aren’t the ones posting randomly, they are the ones that build a strategy with purpose, creativity, and data-driven insights. … More Why start-ups and SMEs need a social media strategy in 2025
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
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
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!
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
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
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
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
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
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
Small Business Research and Enterprise 