News & views

24 April 2026

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has launched a new England-wide research project aimed at understanding what support small businesses truly need, as the sector faces a period of significant change.

With economic pressures, structural shifts and evolving business needs impacting organisations across the country, the FSB says support for small businesses is now at a “crossroads”.

As part of the initiative, the organisation is inviting small businesses to take part in a short survey titled “Big Support for Small Business – What Businesses Really Need”. The findings will help shape future recommendations and influence how business support is delivered at both local and national levels.

The research aims to:

• Understand what “business support” means from a small business perspective
• Identify programmes and approaches that have had the greatest impact
• Explore the role of public and private sector support
• Develop practical recommendations for the future

The FSB is encouraging as many businesses as possible across England to share their views, ensuring a wide range of experiences are reflected in the final report.

Input from businesses across the East Midlands will be particularly important in helping to build a clear picture of regional needs and priorities.

The survey will remain open until 18 May, with the FSB emphasising that the more responses gathered, the stronger the case for meaningful change.

Small businesses can take part in the survey via the link: Big Support for Small Business – What Businesses Really Need.