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Joe Phelan

Business finance editor

About the Author

Joe is an experienced writer, journalist, and editor. He has written for the BBC, National Geographic, the Observer, Scientific American, and VICE.

Joe joined the money.co.uk team in 2024, where he helps small business owners navigate the often confusing world of business finance. His role is to cut through the jargon and create clear, actionable content that empowers entrepreneurs to make confident financial decisions. He is passionate about breaking down complex topics, whether it's securing funding, managing cash flow, or understanding tax obligations, so that small businesses can thrive.

Beyond business finance, Joe is a Tottenham and Chicago Bears fan and is tolerated by his cat, Harris.

Expertise

  • SMEs

  • Sustainability

  • Business finance

Education

  • NCTJ Diploma In Journalism, Highbury College

  • BA Hons Journalism, University of Chester

Featured in News

Stress and poor mental health are among the UK’s most pressing public health challenges. Yet, for small business owners, managing stress is not just about personal well-being – it can directly impact their business' success.

Why Stress Awareness Month matters for small business owners

Stress and poor mental health are among the UK’s most pressing public health challenges. Yet, for small business owners, managing stress is not just about personal well-being – it can directly impact their business' success.

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The UK’s 5.5 million small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy. However, many struggle to access the external finance they need for investment, expansion, and cash flow management.

The government is calling on SMEs to share finance challenges – make sure your voice is heard

As part of a new consultation that could shape future policy, the UK government is seeking insights from small businesses.

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The government’s renewed focus on SMEs will be seen by many business owners as a welcome morale boost.

What does the government's new SME growth plan mean for your business?

The government has unveiled a revamped Board of Trade and a new SME strategy aimed at helping the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses access finance, boost exports, and scale up.

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The UK’s manufacturing sector is a powerhouse, contributing nearly £200 billion to the economy annually.

The UK’s small manufacturers are being urged to scale – and grants could help make it happen

SMEs make up 99% of UK manufacturers, but many struggle to scale. Understanding available support and new grants could unlock their potential and accelerate growth.

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Today’s small businesses face a range of financial pressures.

How small businesses can build lasting financial stability

For all SMEs, financial stability is the key to long-term success.

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Data from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) paints a stark picture for SMEs across the UK.

63% of SMEs say taxation is their biggest challenge – here’s what can be done about it

Many SMEs are on the lookout for ways to mitigate rising costs while remaining competitive

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Cybercrime has cost British businesses £44 billion in lost revenue over the past five years, yet many SMEs still rely on basic security measures.

Why small businesses need to rethink their approach to cybersecurity

Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) think they’re too insignificant to attract attention from cybercriminals. But this is simply not the case.

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Blurring the lines between personal and business transactions can expose your personal finances to unnecessary risk.

7 reasons why it’s time to switch from a personal to a business bank account

Switching to a business bank account isn’t just about looking professional – it can simplify your finances, protect your assets, and unlock tools to help your business grow.

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Late payments are something that many small businesses cannot afford

Late payments can put SMEs at risk – these nine steps can help protect your business

With the cost of running a business rising and tax payment deadlines approaching, late payments can create significant challenges for SMEs.

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A man walks along a shopping street

Two-thirds of SMEs have economic concerns about 2025 – here’s how to survive the squeeze

How businesses can navigate this complex landscape, protect their margins, and continue to grow in a difficult economic environment.

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The true role of AI is in supporting, not replacing, business fundamentals.

How SMEs can strategically adopt AI – without losing sight of core business needs

Rushing into AI adoption without a strategy can hurt small businesses. The true role of AI is in supporting, not replacing, business fundamentals.

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Wind farm on a moor

Why it can pay for small businesses to go green

Wondering about the benefits of going green? Here's what you need to know

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Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on everything you've achieved.

For small business owners, December is a time of reflection and preparation.

Christmas is the perfect opportunity to look back on the year that has passed, celebrate your achievements, and set your goals for the future.

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What can Spotify Wrapped teach small businesses about personalisation?

The annual viral success of Spotify Wrapped offers valuable lessons for small businesses.

By leveraging customer data and crafting shareable, personalised experiences, you can engage and retain your audience while boosting brand visibility and loyalty.

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Are large language models the future?

How can the government’s new AI chatbot help small businesses?

Small business owners face a constant battle with information overload, and the government’s AI chatbot is stepping in to assist.

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