To open our latest Bulletin, we share the great news that Funding Circle has invited BLS to join its Business Champion Programme. This is in recognition of the quality introductions we have made to them, adherence to their guidelines and our knowledge of the marketplace. So how will our inclusion to the Programme benefit our clients?

More developments in the mobile banking industry with the announcement from CountingUp that it has now launched its Business Bank Account. We look at how the service differs from other mobile banking apps on the market.

To close this edition, we review two surveys from Bibby Financial Services and the Institute of Directors which reveal that business confidence continues to recover from recent low points. However, businesses still see a number of challenges facing them when it comes to growth.

If you would prefer to listen to the podcast version you can click below or download to listen to later via our Soundcloud, Stitcher or itunes channel.

In the latest episode of the Business Finance Bulletin Rob Warlow features ethical business lender Fair Business Loans and how after 10 years focusing on the London market they are spreading their wings to assist SMEs across the UK.

Rob reviews the findings from a recent Institute of Directors report on the Enterprise Investment Scheme and the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme, which reveal that more needs to be done to raise awareness of how both businesses and private investors can make better use of the schemes .

Turning to crowdfunding Rob shares news of a collaboration between KPMG and crowdfunding platform Invest Den designed to provide support and guidance to those SMEs looking to raise funding.

If you are already using an invoice discounting line Rob looks at a new facility, Liquidity Plus, from Close Bros which potentially can release up to 100% of an invoice; a useful boost if working capital is tight.

And in the Business Finance Tip of the Week a look at the difference between profit and cash!

If you wish to listen to the podcast version click below or you can download it via our SoundCloud or itunes channels.

In the first edition of 2015 Rob Warlow looks at reports of strong business confidence levels and the desire to grow amongst many businesses. However, there are some facing a more challenging environment with three key barriers to growth being blamed.

Of those businesses looking for finance Rob reviews a survey carried out by the Institute of Directors which lists the sources of finance that business owners are turning to.

When it comes to lending to small businesses news from the High Street banks has been bleak but as Rob reveals, the latest figures from the Bank of England show positive growth for two months in a row, which is a positive sign.

And in the Business Finance Tip of the Week Rob shares two key questions you ask of yourself and your team when planning for a year of growth.

If you prefer to listen to this week’s bulletin on your phone or in your car you can download the podcast version by visiting our SoundCloud page.