Managing stress as an SME business owner: Practical strategies that work

Running a small or medium sized enterprise can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with a unique set of pressures. During International Stress Awareness Week, it’s important to recognise that stress is not a sign of weakness – it’s a natural response to the demands of leadership. Here are some practical methods to help you manage stress more effectively – starting today. … More Managing stress as an SME business owner: Practical strategies that work

The risks of AI as a business owner

Within the past three years, advancement of large language models and artificial intelligence have revolutionised how we engage with the world. However, despite the rapid integration of this technology into business practices and the increase in AI-based start-ups it is essential that business owners do not become too reliant on its ‘promised’ utility. I believe it would be useful to highlight some of the drawbacks that AI can have on founders, entrepreneurs or anyone within our SME community. … More The risks of AI as a business owner

Time Management Tips for Entrepreneurs: How to Tame the Chaos Without Crying in a Cupboard

Being an entrepreneur is like being the lead actor, director, scriptwriter and janitor of a movie that’s being filmed live, with no budget and the plot keeps changing. Here are some realistic, slightly ridiculous but genuinely helpful time management tips that helped me and I am hoping it will help you stay sane, productive and maybe even get a full night’s sleep (but no promises) … More Time Management Tips for Entrepreneurs: How to Tame the Chaos Without Crying in a Cupboard

Your First Hire: Essential Steps to Hire Compliantly and Successfully

As your business grows, bringing on your first employee is an exciting milestone. However, it comes with significant responsibilities and legal obligations. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure smooth transition into your new role as an employer. … More Your First Hire: Essential Steps to Hire Compliantly and Successfully

Funding your creative business: Navigating challenges and building confidence

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

Networking for new entrepreneurs: How to work a room without breaking a sweat

When most people hear the word “networking”, they think of lukewarm coffee, name badges and awkward conversations that sound like the start of a bad sales pitch. But if you’re a new entrepreneur, networking isn’t just a dreaded social obligation – it’s your secret weapon. So, what do you do? … More Networking for new entrepreneurs: How to work a room without breaking a sweat

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!

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