Giving refugees a chance: Why hiring displaced professionals is a smart move for your business

Rostyslava was born and raised in Ukraine and lived there until the full scale Russian invasion in 2022 forced her to leave. After actively applying for paid jobs and being left with discouraging responses it became clear to her that many employers hold strong stereotypes about refugees. Read this article to find out why hiring displaced people is not just an act of kindness – it’s a wise, strategic decision for any business. … More Giving refugees a chance: Why hiring displaced professionals is a smart move for your business

What you need to know about perfectionism as an entrepreneur

Perfectionism is the “setting of excessively high standards for performance accompanied by overly critical self evaluation.” Having high standards is not inherently bad. The trouble begins when those standards become inflexible and harmful. If you’re noticing burnout, stalled progress or reduced joy, read on. … More What you need to know about perfectionism as an entrepreneur

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

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

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

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