This report presents the insights and reflections of ten experienced business advisors working directly with hundreds of SMEs across the UK. It aims to influence future SME policy and support programmes by elevating the practitioner voice—those who see firsthand what’s working, what isn’t, and what’s missing.
Drawing on three core sources, this report identifies key barriers and enablers to innovation as observed on the frontline. First, it draws from thematic interviews with experienced business advisors who work directly with SMEs to provide tailored growth support. Second, it incorporates data from GROWTHmapper®—a diagnostic tool developed by Oxford Innovation Advice that benchmarks SME performance across a range of growth drivers, including strategy, innovation, leadership, operations, and finance. Finally, it references national insights from the Enterprise Research Centre (ERC), an independent academic research institute that analyses the performance of UK SMEs, particularly through its State of Small Business Britain 2024 report.
Written by Mick Murphy
[Image: Bellagio Stone Ltd exemplifies how targeted business support and strategic guidance can propel an innovative business forward. They have made significant strides towards their growth objectives, setting a benchmark for other ambitious SMEs.]
