With small and medium-sized enterprises employing 16.9 million people – accounting for 60% of total UK employment – and generating £2.8 trillion in turnover, the micro and small business sector remains the backbone of the British economy. NEN’s members provide vital, mostly free local services to these enterprises at every stage of growth, connecting them to funding, mentorship and strategic support.

Mr Reynolds’ track record as Shadow Business and Trade Secretary has demonstrated his commitment to understanding the challenges facing Britain’s smallest businesses, which contribute over a third of total business turnover – nearly double the proportion from medium-sized enterprises.

Alex Till, Chair of NEN said: “We warmly welcome the appointment of Jonathan Reynolds as Business Secretary. Having served as Shadow Business and Trade Secretary, Mr Reynolds has demonstrated a deep understanding of the vital role that micro and small businesses play in driving economic growth. NEN looks forward to working collaboratively with him and his team in the coming months to support the small business community and strengthen our position as a leading voice for enterprise.”

NEN’s network of enterprise support agencies and affiliates works directly with start-ups and micro-businesses in communities across the UK, providing the infrastructure that enables entrepreneurship to flourish at scale. With approximately 16% of trading businesses reporting increased turnover in early 2026, the resilience and growth potential of the small business sector remains strong.

As the new Business Secretary settles into his role, NEN will continue to engage with government stakeholders on key policy priorities that will support the continued growth of micro and small businesses. The organisation represents, connects and promotes local enterprise agencies to policymakers, influences funding decisions on members’ behalf, and keeps its network informed with targeted updates on issues affecting the small business community.