I’m proud to share that I’ve been invited to join the Intuit Small Business Growth Council, a newly launched initiative committed to shaping policy that empowers UK SMEs through digital innovation, simplification, and AI adoption.
This Council exists to tackle some of the most pressing barriers to SME growth: from limited access to technology to the complexity of compliance and administration. At Synapx, we’ve seen these challenges firsthand and are ready to help solve them.
A Strategic Platform for Change
Over two highly focused and collaborative days in Westminster, I joined policymakers and industry leaders to explore three priority areas:
- Accelerating digital adoption for small businesses
- Simplifying and digitising business admin
- Democratising access to artificial intelligence (AI)
These themes are more than policy points; they are the levers determining whether UK small businesses can thrive in a fast-moving global economy.
Our sessions weren’t theoretical; we worked directly with government officials to design practical, scalable, and business-friendly solutions.
Engaging with UK Policymakers at the Highest Level
Our time in Westminster was both purposeful and impactful, marked by high-level engagement and real dialogue. Highlights included:
- A policy roundtable with Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, focused on the role of AI in business productivity.
- Discussions with the Small Business Strategy Team on digital transformation across core operations.
- A working lunch with Liz Barclay, the UK’s Small Business Commissioner, and Terry Corby, CEO of Good Business Pays, on tackling the late payments culture.
- A roundtable with Samantha Niblett MP, exploring how we can support Women in Tech and broaden inclusive investment opportunities
- And a truly memorable moment, a visit to 10 Downing Street for a private tour and briefing with the Prime Minister’s Business Advisers, bringing the voice of real businesses to the core of government decision-making
This kind of access is rare and incredibly valuable. It ensures that small business realities are reflected in policy outcomes.
Why This Work Matters
SMEs make up over 99% of UK businesses, employing millions and driving innovation across every sector from construction and retail to tech and services. Yet, they often operate without meaningful representation in policy conversations that affect their future.
At Synapx, we work with SMEs every day. We know their ambitions. We also know the regulatory friction, legacy systems, and lack of digital support holding them back.
By joining this Council, I’m committed to ensuring these real-world experiences help inform national strategy, not just respond to it.
Unlocking UK Growth Through Digital Empowerment
Our message to policymakers is simple: digitisation is not optional, it’s urgent.
Whether it’s AI adoption, automated reporting, or simplifying compliance, the technologies already exist. What’s needed now is the right environment for implementation: clear regulation, strong digital infrastructure, and collaborative leadership.
The Intuit Small Business Growth Council represents a crucial step in building that environment, connecting government, business, and technology providers like Synapx to align on what matters most.
Looking Ahead
I want to sincerely thank Rob Burlison and Joel Gladwin at Intuit for their outstanding leadership and for bringing this vision to life. Their commitment to amplifying SME voices in policymaking is not only commendable but also essential.
At Synapx, we’re proud to be part of this work. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with government, industry partners, and fellow innovators to ensure that small businesses don’t just survive but lead.
Final Thoughts
This is a defining moment for the UK economy. SMEs are the engine, and it’s time we fuel their growth with the tools, policies, and platforms they need to compete and win.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent the small business community in this forum and excited to help shape the future of UK enterprise.
Let’s champion growth, remove barriers, and put digital leadership at the heart of the small business agenda.
– Andrew Price, CEO of Synapx.
