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Joe Phelan

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, and Monocle.

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.

He writes a weekly insight for money.co.uk, published every Tuesday.

Expertise

SMEs
Sustainability
Business finance

Education

NCTJ Diploma In Journalism, Highbury College
BA Hons Journalism, University of Chester

Featured in News

Meet Ken: the founder making 3D printing more accessible for businesses and makers

What began as a lockdown project in a garden shed has grown into an award-winning 3D printing business, helping organisations turn ideas into practical, production-ready parts.

Meet Luke: the TikTok superstar turning viral fame into a cleaning revolution

From TikTok Shop success to founder of Yass Clean, Luke Arnel-Cameron has proven that purpose, community insight and careful planning can turn a viral moment into a £10m business in under a year.

Is this the end of the late payment norm?

The government has announced sweeping new powers to tackle late payments, from enforced fines to a 60-day cap on payment terms. Here's what's changing, and what it means for small businesses.

Meet Yula: the founder bringing joy, community and song to choirs across Suffolk

From a single maternity leave project to seven thriving choirs, Yula Andrews has spent 15 years proving that music can unite, uplift and sustain a business.

81% of SMEs missed growth opportunities last year. Here’s what’s driving the funding gap

The majority of UK small businesses ended 2025 having missed at least one significant growth opportunity. And the reasons are more nuanced than rising costs alone.

Meet Roy: the founder reinventing workspaces for the next generation of entrepreneurs

Roy Shaby founded Tradestars after struggling to find workspaces that suited modern operators. Today, his company provides studios, support and community-focused spaces for hundreds of growing brands.

What the latest lending data reveals about small business strategy

New data shows small business borrowing is up more than 25% in a year. Here’s what the numbers reveal about how SMEs are funding growth and planning strategically.

Compare rent guarantee insurance for landlords April 2026

You could get rent guarantee cover to protect you in case your tenants ever stop paying their rent.

Meet Matt: the restaurateur who is reinventing the pickle

Matt Harris launched Pickle Project to create the UK’s first ultrasonic pickles after struggling to find any good enough for his fried chicken restaurants.

VAT loans: the overlooked finance option helping SMEs manage cash flow

A large VAT bill can disrupt cash flow, particularly for small businesses with uneven income. VAT loans allow you to spread the cost, but how do they work, and when do they make sense?

Meet Jon and Adam: the friends behind the lighting brand trusted by Cristiano Ronaldo

Lighting Legends started as a lockdown project and quickly grew into a nationally recognised supplier for the National Trust, Tower of London and Windsor Castle.

Is your business ‘loan ready’? How lenders really assess SMEs

From creditworthiness to cash flow, here’s how to get your ducks in a row before applying for a business loan.

SMEs urged to ‘lock the door’ on cyber criminals. Here’s how to do it

Cyber crime costs UK businesses £14.7 billion a year, with half of all SMEs targeted in the last 12 months. The government’s new “lock the door” campaign has been designed to help small firms shut out attackers.

Meet Scott: the creative custodian of a 50-year-old Norwich photography studio

Scott McKay took the reins of Focal Point in 2024, aiming to preserve and grow the Norwich-based creative studio founded 50 years ago.

The business savings audit: is your cash working as hard as it could be?

Many SME owners keep business savings in the same place as their current account for one reason: it’s easier. But as the gap between entry-level business rates and specialist savings products widens, this approach could be impacting margins.

Meet Tanyka and Olivia: the sisters who took their parenting startup to Dragons’ Den

When Olivia Davson faced rising costs during her maternity leave, she and her sister Tanyka created a discount platform that now helps tens of thousands of UK families.

SME pressures now rival Covid-era levels, says parliamentary report

UK SMEs are under pandemic-level pressures. A new parliamentary report report has called for coordinated action to support small businesses.

Meet Michelle: the Apprentice star who’s empowering women to succeed in business

After building a multi‑million‑pound property portfolio and launching IMS Property Group, Michelle Niziol now focuses on mentoring ambitious women.

From AI to red tape: What the UK’s 2026 business priorities mean for SMEs

MPs have identified seven priorities that could affect everything from hiring and regulation to funding and technology adoption. Here’s what small business owners need to know.

Meet Mark: the founder behind a family-run collectibles business

After more than a decade selling model cars and collectibles, Mcslots turned a period of slowing sales into a new growth chapter, all while staying true to its family roots.

Think you’re insured? Why many SMEs only find out they’re not when it’s too late

Insurance shouldn’t be a set-and-forget task. Many small businesses face financial risk because policies are outdated or incomplete. Fortunately, a few practical steps can help ensure protection matches evolving business needs.

Meet Maggie: the founder redefining productivity by syncing work with biology

Maggie McDaris and her co-founder Georgie Powell launched Phase to help women align their work with their menstrual cycles.

Tax is no longer a once-a-year job, and SMEs are spending £4.8bn on software to stay compliant

Making Tax Digital is changing how small businesses manage tax. Many are investing in digital tools to meet the new quarterly reporting requirements, and the shift is altering how finances are tracked and managed throughout the year.

Meet Mark: the former postman transforming leaflet distribution with precision mapping and custom-built software

The Private Postman is reimagining how leaflets reach the right doors, combining deep industry experience with bespoke technology to deliver unmatched accuracy.

Want to be crowned the UK’s first Town of Culture? Look to your small businesses

Small businesses are at the heart of what makes a town feel alive. Their everyday work shapes communities, connects people, and builds the pride that the new UK Town of Culture competition aims to recognise.

Meet Georgia: the talent agency founder redefining representation for creators

Founded to put creators first, FARQ has grown into a global agency securing over $6.5 million in brand deals, while building a community-driven, creator-focused approach to talent management.

Why small business owners are eternal optimists (even in tough economic times)

Optimism remains a defining trait of UK entrepreneurs. Data shows SME owners are entering 2026 with growth on the agenda – but access to finance remains a stumbling block for some.

Meet Natalie and Matthew: the eyewear entrepreneurs championing British creativity through handcrafted spectacles

The House of Spectacles is redefining how people feel in their glasses, combining design, craft, and a made-in-London ethos to deliver the perfect fit.

Meet Vicky: the founder turning everyday gardening essentials into a booming online business

Vicky Hemdev started Divchi to fill gaps in the gardening market, giving green-fingered people across the UK access to the tools they actually need.

Why getting tough on late payments matters for every small business in 2026

When invoices go unpaid, it’s small businesses that feel the pain first. With late payments shutting down 38 UK firms every day, tougher enforcement can’t come soon enough.

The seasonal reset: How to turn slower trading weeks into a strategic advantage

For some sectors, the start of the year is breathless; for others, the phones stop ringing. Here is how to use a seasonal lull — whenever it lands — to prepare for a stronger year ahead.

Metrics that matter (but don’t show up in your accounts)

As 2026 looms, it’s worth taking stock of the progress that can’t be captured in a spreadsheet.

The ghost of January future: How to survive the post-Christmas cash flow crash

For many small businesses, festive trading brings a welcome boost, followed by a familiar early-year slowdown.

The hidden cost of entrepreneurship: Why small business owners need support this Christmas

Festive cheer can sometimes feel out of reach for small business owners. New research reveals the hidden emotional toll of running a business.

The trust economy: Why consumers are choosing small businesses (even in a cost-of-living-crisis)

When budgets tighten, loyalty becomes selective. Small businesses are coming out on top not by undercutting prices, but by offering something money can’t buy.

Meet Matt: the founder using AI to revolutionise how we choose wine

Matt Ovenden launched The Wine Engine to give wine lovers more choice and control, combining technology and taste to deliver a tailored wine experience.

Meet Kate: the co-founder making food growing accessible, colourful, and sustainable

Kate Cotterill launched She Grows Veg to inspire people to grow their own food, combining sustainability, wellbeing, and fun into every seed packet.

How small businesses can turn festive support into year-round success

The festive season can bring a surge in sales and community backing, but how can small businesses turn that seasonal goodwill into lasting success?

Beyond the high street: Why Small Business Saturday matters more than ever

Small Business Saturday is more than a shopping opportunity – it’s a chance to vote with our wallets for the kind of communities we want to live in.

Small exporters are being left behind, and it's putting growth at risk

New data reveals a growing divide in UK exports. While large firms are seeing growth, micro-businesses are being left behind.

Relief at last? How business rate reform could help small businesses thrive

The government’s upcoming Budget promises changes aimed at easing costs, supporting growth, and giving high streets a chance to thrive.

The SME blind spot: Why it pays to know your business credit score

Many small business owners overlook their business credit score, even though it can affect access to financing, supplier terms, and growth opportunities.

Meet Amrit: the entrepreneur revolutionising home care franchising with tech and perseverance

Walfinch is reshaping the way home care is delivered in the UK, combining cutting-edge technology with a positive vision of ageing to support clients.

Meet Jessica: the founder bringing cheese and wine pairings to life

From Instagram passion project to a physical shop in Pinner, Jessica has turned her love of food, wine, and storytelling into a growing business.

Why the best USP isn’t a clever tagline

Forget the race to sound unique. The businesses that really stand out aren’t the loudest – they’re the ones that quietly deliver, day after day.

Why only 15% of UK small businesses achieve sustained growth – and how yours could be one of them

Behind every growth statistic is a story of resilience, risk, and resourcefulness. Here’s what the UK’s most consistent small businesses are doing differently, and how you can follow suit.

From stress to stability: A guide for the 1 in 3 UK entrepreneurs losing sleep

Long hours and rising costs don’t have to define entrepreneurial life. With the right tools and strategies, business owners can cut stress

Pride in Place: What the government’s new £5bn programme means for small businesses

With local communities set to take the lead on regeneration, small businesses across the UK have the chance to shape projects, form partnerships, and future-proof their operations.

Meet Emmanuel: the founder making pet wellness simple and effective

Emmanuel Ayeni launched Pambros to create naturally formulated, trustworthy supplements for pets, helping animals thrive and their owners feel confident in their care.

Meet Zac: the founder giving vintage fashion a new lease of life

While at university, Zac Hembry spotted an opportunity to combine sustainability with vintage fashion. That vision has now become a thriving business.

Why SMEs are ready to embrace Digital Company IDs

Research shows 85% of UK small businesses would pay for a Digital Company ID to slash their admin burden and reduce fraud risk.

How Britain’s high streets are making a comeback – and who’s driving it

Britain’s high streets are bouncing back, driven not by nostalgia, but by a new generation of shoppers who value community, connection, and unique local businesses.

The UK side hustle boom (and why tax planning matters)

Over a third of UK businesses now start as side hustles, turning weekend hobbies into income-generating projects.

Latest UK Small Business Statistics Report (2025)

Explore the latest small business statistics: the number of SMEs in the UK, SME turnover stats, average profit margin for a small business, and more.

Sustainability in business: SME insights | money.co.uk

Explore UK business sustainability statistics, barriers and examples of sustainable business practices – plus guidance on funding and government support.

Why Gen Z could transform the UK’s small business landscape

Gen Z has the ideas, drive, and confidence to become the UK’s next wave of business owners, but access to finance remains a key barrier.

Finances for freelancers: how to manage money

Take control of your freelance finances with expert guidance on budgeting, saving, setting rates, managing tax, and getting paid, plus tools to help you stay organised

Meet Laura: the ice bath entrepreneur whose data-driven approach won over Anthony Joshua

Laura Fullerton launched Monk to make cold therapy accessible, developing smart ice baths that turn wellness challenges into trackable, transformative experiences.

Meet Harry: the founder who's redefining luxury by going completely off-grid

Harry Tomkinson launched Shacks to offer guests a chance to disconnect in nature, combining high-end interiors with the raw beauty of remote, untouched locations.

Sustainability is stalling for SMEs, but the green opportunity is still there

Research by Aldermore Bank shows UK SMEs are falling behind on net zero goals, with only 13% currently on track.

Why every business win deserves a celebration

In the rush of running a business, it’s easy to overlook wins. But pausing to celebrate progress can boost motivation and drive growth.

Why rising UK business confidence matters for SMEs

With UK business confidence at its highest since 2015 and borrowing costs at a 16-month low, SMEs have a rare chance to expand before conditions shift.

Six side hustle realities no one talks about

Whether it’s offering freelance services, or setting up an online store, more people than ever are turning a few spare hours into an extra income stream.

Meet Catharine and Caroline: the duo behind a distillery where every bottle is a canvas

Old friends Catharine Russell and Caroline Harrison founded Modern Art Distillery to pair award-winning spirits with original artwork from UK artists.

Mind the AI gap: Why SMEs could risk falling further behind

AI adoption is accelerating across larger companies, leaving many small businesses at risk of losing ground.

Meet Dominique: the singer-turned-sauce-entrepreneur spicing up the UK’s kitchens

Singer, chef, entrepreneur. Dominique Woolf has turned her spicy side hustle into a bestselling brand that’s shaking up the condiment aisle.

UK Business Statistics 2025 - Business Facts and Stats Report

The latest UK business statistics for 2025, covering topics including revenue, creation, lending, and UK business statistics by industry, region, and size.

Democracy at work? 46% of UK employees say they perform best when involved in decision-making

Our data highlights why SME leaders should rethink how they engage with their teams.

Navigating quiet periods: 6 tips for small businesses facing seasonal dips

Summer brings sunshine, school holidays, and, for many a small business owner, a potential dip in activity.

Meet Renée: one half of the entrepreneurial duo behind a zero-waste food delivery service

Renée Williams and Anshu Ahuja co-founded DabbaDrop to revolutionise takeaway culture with plant-based meals delivered in reusable tiffins.

Meet Jonnie: the tour guide who’s been helping people fall in love with London for over a decade

Jonnie Fielding uses his charming style to reveal London’s hidden curiosities to his 275k social media followers

Blurred lines between work and home are harming SME productivity – here’s how to fix it

Small business owners face a growing challenge: the “infinite workday” is stretching hours and draining productivity.

This is why your business name matters

The right business name builds trust and sets you apart, while the wrong one can confuse customers or harm your brand.

5 strategies for future-proofing your small business against rising costs

As we move through 2025, small businesses across the UK are facing mounting cost pressures.

What the government’s new housebuilding reforms mean for small business owners

The government has unveiled a sweeping package of reforms aimed at smaller housebuilders, and it could be good news for small businesses across the board.

Cyber attack crisis comms: What small businesses should (and shouldn’t) do next

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting smaller firms, often because they lack the defences of their larger counterparts.

Fraud, hacks and data leaks: Is your small business really covered?

Think you’re too small to be hacked? Think again. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, cybercriminals are targeting SMEs in record numbers.

How to write a business plan executive summary in 5 steps

Learn how to write an effective executive summary for your business plan that clearly communicates your key points in just 5 steps.

The UK’s enduring love affair with small businesses – and why it matters for retail entrepreneurs

Small businesses have long shaped the UK’s economic and cultural landscape. And, in retail, their influence is especially visible.

How finance can help UK SMEs stay ahead on sustainability

UK SMEs are making real headway on the road to decarbonisation, and are currently outpacing many of their European peers. But limited access to capital remains a major barrier for those looking to go further, faster.

UK Government’s export roadshows: A much-needed boost for small business ambitions

Designed to get SMEs face-to-face with international buyers and trade experts, the roadshows will travel across the UK in the coming months.

How bookshops are writing a new chapter for UK small businesses

Once thought to be on the brink of extinction, independent bookshops are thriving once more, and offering valuable lessons for small businesses everywhere.

Tariff uncertainty: How UK small businesses can take back control

Tariffs can impact small businesses, even if you don’t directly import or export goods. However, there are steps you can take to keep your business running smoothly.

Should your business go cashless? Pros, cons and costs

While going cash-free offers clear benefits for some, it’s important to contemplate the potential downsides too.

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.

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.

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.

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.

How small businesses can build lasting financial stability

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Why it can pay for small businesses to go green

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

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.

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.

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.

UK Diversity in Business Statistics 2023 - Facts and Stats Report

Celebrate diversity in business with our statistics on women in business, ethnic minorities, and more.