The Chancellor’s May 2026 statement offers a mix of short-term relief and longer-term reform for SMEs.

The mileage allowance increase and fuel duty freeze should ease cost pressure straight away, especially for firms with mobile teams or transport-heavy operations. The temporary VAT cut may also create a useful summer boost for hospitality and leisure businesses.

Phase 3 of the North of Tyne Business Support Fund is now open. SMEs in Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland can apply for up to 50% grant funding towards business improvement projects worth £3,000–£8,000.

The Employment Rights Act 2025 is here — and if you run a business, employ even one member of staff, or work as a sole trader who occasionally brings in contractors, this affects you.

Great news for small businesses across the region — Citylife Business Support has returned for 2026, and we're delighted to be part of it once again.

A new round of fully-funded expert support is now available to SMEs in Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, North Tyneside and Northumberland, running from April through to December 2026. Applications opened on 1st May, and if you haven't already taken steps to register your interest, now is the time to act.

Starting this November, Companies House is rolling out a mandatory identity verification process for all company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs). This isn't just another administrative task to tick off a list. It's a fundamental shift aimed at enhancing transparency, tackling economic crime, and building a more reliable foundation for UK commerce.

HiThrive is thrilled to announce its third consecutive year of sponsorship with the Newcastle Eagles. This partnership celebrates shared values of community, growth, and inspiration, supporting the Eagles both on and off the court as they continue to uplift Newcastle through basketball and community engagement.

What sets an award-winning consultancy apart from the thousands of others competing for recognition? For HiThrive, it's always been about delivering exceptional results through genuine partnership and unwavering commitment to client success.

We're thrilled to announce that HiThrive has been named Business Consultancy Firm of the Year in the prestigious Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards 2025. This recognition comes after a rigorous selection process involving over 90,000 businesses and corporate professionals worldwide, with winners evaluated on quality of service, innovation, experience, and sustainability.

This award validates what our clients have experienced firsthand: HiThrive doesn't just offer consultancy services—we deliver transformational partnerships. Whether you need performance improvement, strategy development, or comprehensive business audits, we don't just diagnose problems; we implement solutions and stay with you until you see results.

Ready to discover what award-winning consultancy can do for your business? Read our full announcement to learn how our proven methodologies have helped hundreds of businesses achieve exceptional results.

HiThrive achieves SHINE’s highest Platinum Membership, reflecting its success in promoting workplace excellence through SHINE’s five beams of good practice.

Phase 2 of the North of Tyne Business Support Fund is now live, offering up to 50% funding for growth-focused projects costing £3,000–£8,000. If your business in Newcastle, North Tyneside, or Northumberland needs support with strategy development, performance improvement, or business growth planning, HiThrive is here to help. As a registered provider with NBSL, we can guide you through the application process and ensure your project maximises this funding opportunity. Don’t miss out—get in touch with HiThrive today!

Discover how HiThrive’s award-winning consultancy transforms small businesses and startups. Explore practical advice and proven strategies for success!

Running a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) is no easy task. You’re constantly managing numerous responsibilities—from handling operations to leading your team and driving sales. Amid this whirlwind, staying on top of your finances can feel overwhelming.

It's no secret that businesses need more than just a great product or service to thrive. In today's competitive landscape, having a well-thought-out growth strategy is crucial. With 2025 fast approaching, it's time for small business owners and entrepreneurs to start planning how to seize new opportunities and overcome challenges.