SMEs and start-ups say that online opportunities, hard work and their own creativity are bigger factors in their success than efforts by politicians to support business.

Our round-up of other small business stories making the headlines this week...

The Forum of Private Business is calling on the next Government to protect the interests of small businesses as it launches its own Manifesto for Small Business.

Over half a million over-55s might take advantage of new pension freedoms to start a new business.

SMEs are failing to take professional advice when setting up their business, leaving them vulnerable to costly mistakes.

Businesses based in England want more decisions to be taken in town halls rather than from Whitehall, according to a new survey.

Our round-up of other small business stories making the headlines this week...

The hiring intentions of UK firms are at “sky-high” levels with figures stronger even than those during the boom of the mid-2000s, according to the latest Business Trends Report by accountants BDO.

Freelancers’ confidence in business and the economy has been restored after dips in the previous quarter, according to new research.

With business cash on deposit up by 6%, many businesses are missing out on potential interest with 31% of business deposit accounts paying just 0.1% or less on balances of £10,000.