What the finance choices of small businesses tell us about how they think and grow

In our latest Business Barometer report, we explore the decisions UK SMEs are making when it comes to finance, investment and managing cash flow in a challenging economic climate.

Drawing on long-term data and fresh insights, this report reveals how business owners are balancing ambition with financial pressure highlighting the different funding routes SMEs are taking, from personal investment to external finance, and what this means for growth in 2026.