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Read the latest business news, top tips, support and funding announcements, and success stories from across the region.

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Business adviser supporting a business owner
  • Digital skills
  • Tips

05 January 2026

Cyber security top tips for small businesses

How to protect your business from cyber threats.

A smiling couple dressed in winter coats and scarves look into a shop window at night while holding shopping bags, with festive lights glowing in the background.
  • Blog

16 December 2025

Gift local by supporting independent retailers this festive season

Support local this Christmas by shopping independent West Midlands retailers and gifting unique products that back local makers and businesses.

The Plough In Harborne Image1 800X500
  • News
  • Case study

11 December 2025

The Plough in Harborne: The growth journey behind a much-loved local institution

Harborne’s Plough founder gained clarity, support and direction through the Investment Readiness Programme, helping turn new growth plans into action.

A group of four women stand smiling on the steps outside The Savoy Centre, a red-brick building. They are positioned in a line in front of the entrance, with sunshine casting warm light on them. The women appear to be colleagues or partners, dressed in smart casual and professional clothing, and the building’s sign for “The Savoy Centre” is visible above the doorway.
  • News

09 December 2025

Mayor backs hundreds more entrepreneurs to create jobs and grow the economy

Mayor Richard Parker expands community business hubs, giving diverse entrepreneurs funding, advice and opportunities to grow, create jobs and boost the WM economy.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), launching the first West Midlands Business Festival at Grand Station, Wolverhampton, 2025.
  • News
  • Business Festival

09 December 2025

West Midlands Business Festival 2026 line up revealed

West Midlands Business Festival returns with 110 free events helping SMEs grow through AI, exporting, funding, networking & the Mayor’s Growth Plan.

Ramsden & Whale 800X500
  • Sustainability
  • Case study

05 December 2025

Drumming up energy savings: How BEAS helped Ramsden & Whale

Ramsden & Whale, a leading steel drum manufacturer, was struggling with rising energy costs caused by outdated, inefficient equipment. BEAS stepped in with a comprehensive audit and delivered targeted recommendations for modern upgrades to boost efficiency and cut costs.

A busy outdoor Christmas market at night, with people browsing wooden stalls decorated with festive garlands and twinkling lights. Shoppers in winter coats hold food and drinks as they move through the warmly lit, crowded scene.
  • News

05 December 2025

The importance of festive spend to the West Midlands economy

West Midlands small businesses face big festive opportunities but rising challenges. Support local, stay resilient, and access free business advice.

People in a production studio
  • News
  • Employer resources

27 November 2025

Why SMEs should embrace skills for growth initiatives

One of the biggest barriers to growth for SMEs isn’t securing finance or finding the right space, it’s about having the right skills in place.