Sustainability: Returning to our roots and building forward

Sustainability is defined as ‘the ability to be maintained or continued at a certain rate or level’. It sounds simple – but when applied to business, leadership or life after adversity, it becomes much deeper. If you’re someone trying to build something meaningful, this could be a product, service or space – these principles of sustainability still apply. … More Sustainability: Returning to our roots and building forward

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

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

Impostor Syndrome among entrepreneurs: Actionable solutions

Impostor syndrome is a psychological pattern marked by feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, affecting many entrepreneurs. A significant number report its impact on decision-making and leadership. Overcoming it involves refining one’s value proposition, challenging negative biases, and developing a growth mindset, ultimately boosting confidence and enabling professional growth. … More Impostor Syndrome among entrepreneurs: Actionable solutions

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