SME Budget Pressure: A new SME Confidence Tracker says more than half of UK small businesses are holding back big investment until the Budget lands, with many calling for wider business-rate cuts and more breathing space on cash flow. VAT Fight for Hospitality: Lake District hospitality firms are urging VAT to drop from 20% to 10%, arguing the current system leaves them at a disadvantage and pushing venues towards closure. AI for Business Adoption: BT has launched “AI from BT” to help UK firms adopt AI securely, alongside coverage of the AI “token” concept and the gap between small business and large enterprise AI take-up. Local Growth & Skills: Toyota Lean Management Centre and Made Smarter South East ran a lean-and-digital transformation programme for Buckinghamshire manufacturers, while a new Local Apprenticeships Service is set to expand from spring 2027 to match young people with employers, including small firms. Cost-of-Living Hit: Northern Ireland gas prices rose by almost 19% for domestic and small business customers, adding about £172 to a typical annual bill. Business Resilience Stories: A Runcorn cleaning entrepreneur launched Revive Oven & Carpet Cleaning, and a South Wales independent furniture retailer marked 75 years by backing an independent business award.