Apprenticeship Funding Boost: Trade body SELECT has teamed up with Luceco Group to fund first-year apprenticeships for three Scottish small businesses, handing out £6,000 grants to V C Electrical (East), T Walsh Contracts (West) and A B Electrical Scotland (North), aiming to tackle rising training costs and low employer funding. AI for SMEs: BT has launched “AI from BT” with practical, secure tools for UK firms, including an AI Receptionist and a free AI Adoption Hub, after research found many small businesses aren’t realising AI’s potential. Diesel Shock Hits Costs: Diesel prices in the UK have hit a record £2 a litre, with the rise likely to bite independent traders, logistics and farmers who rely on transport fuel. Software Lock-In Loosens: New EU Data Act rules (starting from 12 Sept 2025) are set to make it easier for customers to export data and avoid switching charges, giving UK businesses leverage at contract renewals. Circular Tech Scheme: Kingston Council added 15 drop-off points so residents can donate working devices and recycle small broken electricals, with Relove Technology handling secure data wiping and reuse. Local Growth & Footfall: Wrexham AFC completed purchase of land for the new Kop Stand, backed by Welsh Government, as part of wider regeneration plans.