UK's largest ever small business survey launches

The UK’s largest ever survey of small and medium businesses kicks off with the launch of the 2009 Business Pulse.

The research will measure the current health, drivers and inhibitors to successful business in the UK. 10,000 businesses across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will also reveal the extent of their optimism for the future recovery of the economy.

The findings will support the agenda of Small Business Week 2009, which begins on 19 October and is dedicated to championing commercial, industry and government support for the UK’s 4.7 million-plus smaller enterprises. It is supported by BT Business, in partnership with the British Chambers of Commerce, Business Link, the ACCA, NatWest, Growing Business and everywoman.

The 2009 Business Pulse survey participants will also get the chance to win a once in a lifetime trip to support team GB at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

Small Business Week 2009 launches with a panel discussion of the findings featuring business leaders, MPs and smaller businesses hosted by Peter Jones and Lord Digby Jones.

Peter Jones says: “Direct feedback from those living and breathing small business will help industry to understand and respond better to the sector and enable the UK to recover faster.”

Adam Marshall, Director of Policy, The British Chambers of Commerce, said, “The Business Pulse will provide vital information on the issues facing small firms during a difficult economic climate. It will help us ensure that small businesses, from start ups right through to 250 person firms, have the support and guidance they need to boost employment and drive the UK recovery.”

“Who better to set the agenda for the week than small businesses themselves? Despite the climate, we’ve seen resilience and innovation among smaller firms that will undoubtedly see them in a better position for the upturn when it comes.” said Bill Murphy, managing director of BT Business.

Small Businesses are invited to take part in the survey at www.sbw09.co.uk/businesspulse where they can also enter the prize draw to win a trip to support team GB at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games for them and a friend. This prize will include travel, accommodation, tickets to the opening ceremony and a chance to see the world’s top athletes compete.