AGP Executive Report
Last update: 3 hours agoEnergy Costs: Four in five small firms say “phantom” energy use is pushing up winter bills, with computers, printers and chargers often left plugged in or running overnight. Hiring and Finance: Three in ten firms say they would hire more if business-rates relief were expanded, while applications for personal-guarantee insurance have jumped 62% as SME borrowing grows. Northern Ireland Growth: Whiterock has deployed €82m to support SME growth, and a new £2.3m grant scheme will help smaller firms expand into export markets. Technology: Two-thirds of small firms using AI are building their own tools, raising concerns that governance may lag adoption. Business Confidence: Just 26% of small firms forecast growth in the final quarter of 2026, and fewer than one in five plan to invest.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.