Autumn Budget 2026: NEN’s Summary and Initial Reflections for the Enterprise Support Sector
Executive Summary The Autumn Budget 2026 presents a mixed picture for entrepreneurs, sole traders and small businesses. Alongside measures that may increase costs and administrative requirements for some firms, the Government has also signalled a continued commitment to entrepreneurship, local economic growth and improving access to finance. A notable theme running through the Budget is […]
A Message from HMCA – NEN Patron
HMCA is delighted to continue its patronage of the National Enterprise Network (NEN), reinforcing our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses across the UK. As a family-run business established in 1978, we understand the realities of building and growing a successful organisation. Over the years, we have developed a range of trusted member benefits […]
Supporting SMEs through better mental health
As businesses continue to navigate economic pressures, workforce challenges and the demands of growth, employee wellbeing is becoming an increasingly important part of building resilient organisations. For many SMEs, access to specialist mental health support can be limited. Smaller organisations often lack the resources available to larger employers, despite facing similar workplace wellbeing challenges. Able […]
HMCA Shares 48 Years of Lessons on Growth, Resilience and Change
NEN is pleased to share a new resource from HMCA, one of NEN’s long‑standing patrons, who have supported membership organisations for 48 years. HMCA have created a short infographic highlighting the practical lessons they’ve learned over nearly five decades of organic growth, partnership‑led development, and navigating change. Their experience will resonate with many of our […]
NEN Welcomes Jonathan Reynolds Appointment as Business Secretary
The National Enterprise Network (NEN), the UK’s leading voice for enterprise support agencies, has welcomed the appointment of Jonathan Reynolds as Business Secretary, signalling a new era of collaboration to strengthen support for the nation’s 5.7 million small businesses. With small and medium-sized enterprises employing 16.9 million people – accounting for 60% of total UK employment – […]
NEN Policy Update: Implications of Recent Government Changes for Micro Businesses
Updated: 23 July 2026 Britain has a new Prime Minister, a reshaped Cabinet, and a series of early policy announcements that will influence the operating environment for micro and small businesses. This briefing summarises the key developments and their potential impact on our sector. Political and Ministerial Changes Andy Burnham became Prime Minister on 20 […]
Exploring Social Value Engine Tools: What Members Can Access
Following our recent NEN Member Huddle with the Social Value Engine which can be viewed here the team have shared a set of tools that members can view and explore online, offering a useful insight into how the platform supports impact reporting. Tools available to view Impact Card Studio Members can view example impact cards […]
Member Huddle on the Central Digital Platform
The National Enterprise Network hosted a well‑attended Member Huddle on 13 July, bringing together advisers, enterprise leaders and government representatives for an in‑depth briefing on the new Central Digital Platform (CDP) and its role in transforming public procurement for small businesses. A once‑in‑a‑generation shift in procurement Opening the session, Shirley Cooper OBE, Crown Representative […]
Succession from strength: New chapter for BIC as chief prepares to retire
The chief executive of one of the North East’s most pioneering business support organisations is to step down after 25 years at the helm. Paul McEldon OBE, who joined the North East BIC in 1994 before being appointed as chief executive in 2001, has announced he will retire from executive leadership next year, providing time to ensure the right successor is found. Paul will leave the BIC in a position of record […]
ERC Research Showcase 2026
Alex Till, NEN Chair attended the Enterprise Research Centre’s Research Showcase 2026 which took place on 3 June at Warwick Business School’s London campus at The Shard, bringing together researchers, policymakers and sector partners to explore the latest evidence on entrepreneurship, innovation and business growth. The programme highlighted cutting‑edge insights across several major themes, including […]