There are a number of programmes that have been publicised recently which enable small businesses to develop and grow. Many of these attract support and funding from Government. A summary of these programmes appears here but for more details contact your local LGBA Business Advisor
If your business undertakes any form of research or development which can include internal processes as well as service and product development then the costs incurred in this activity can be offset against Corporation Tax (subject to qualifying conditions). Currently up to 230% of your R & D expenditure can be offset against tax and in many cases this results in HMRC returning tax already paid to you. To see if you can qualify follow this link Tax Credits
SMART is a Technology Strategy Board scheme offering funding to single UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to engage in R&D projects in the strategically important areas of science, engineering and technology, from which successful new products, processes and services could emerge. For more information and to see if you can qualify go to SMART Grant