This report delves into the environmental ambition of the UK’s SMEs. While most small firms want to make a difference and have objectives beyond profit, only one in five plan to adopt ESG measures, only a third plan to introduce CSR policies or track their environmental impact. The Government needs to step up support for entrepreneurs to help them adopt green measures through clearer communication on climate policy direction, offering financial rewards for taking environmental action and championing and celebrating the outliers to reach Net Zero goals.

A major survey of female-run small UK firms, from the Enterprise Trust, Enterprise Nation and TSB Bank, has found the majority (82%) expect to invest in skills and technology as their business rebounds strongly from the pandemic in 2022. The research also found two thirds (66%) expected their business to thrive, leading to an increased demand for skilled workers.

Unlocking Growth: How to Expand Access to Capital, a joint report from The Entrepreneurs Network and The Enterprise Trust, evaluates the funding options open to SMEs – from Start-Up Loans and grants to equity crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending. The report identifies policy changes that will ensure businesses can access the finance they need to grow.