Category: Business news

McLaren Automotive to invest £500m to anchor its future in the UK

Published 16 September 2026

Business news, Innovation, Skills and workforce

McLaren Automotive is investing £500 million to expand its UK manufacturing, engineering and operations. It will enable the Woking-based firm to accelerate the development of its next generation of models while bringing jobs and further benefits to Surrey’s economy.

The investment reinforces McLaren’s commitment to Surrey and Britain – where Bruce McLaren founded the company in 1963 and where it produced the legendary McLaren F1, its first supercar.

The programme will create at least 1,000 new direct and indirect jobs across McLaren’s UK operations by 2032, while safeguarding existing roles.

Up to 3,000 additional jobs are expected to be created across supply chain. This will bolster the British automotive sector and boost exports.

The investment strengthens McLaren Automotive’s expertise in lightweighting, carbon fibre and advanced manufacturing, while securing critical intellectual property and production capabilities in the UK.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for highways, transport and economic growth, said: “For decades McLaren has played a significant role in Surrey’s economy, providing training and employment for thousands of people and bringing millions of pounds of investment and trade into the county every year.

“We warmly welcome today’s announcement which reinforces Surrey’s position as a leader for innovation. This significant investment will support many of our economic strengths, including our automotive, engineering and creative sectors.

“We look forward to continue working with the team at Woking directly to ensure this new investment delivers benefits to our people, places and employers, through direct employment, skills training for young people and broader supply chains.”

Expanding McLaren Automotive in the UK

The investment will enable McLaren Automotive to expand its production capability. It will increase vehicle output to ensure the next generation of McLaren Automotive cars are built in Britain. This includes a newly confirmed performance SUV. This will be made possible by a new vehicle assembly facility planned in the UK.

It will see McLaren Automotive’s manufacturing workforce is set to double in the UK, supported by new apprenticeships to develop the next generation of talent.

For the first time in its history, McLaren Automotive’s future powertrains will be designed and built in-house, starting with two new engines and transmissions. This will support the company’s hybrid engine strategy, building on McLaren Automotive’s pioneering use of hybrid technology.

McLaren Automotive is also expanding operations at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking.

The company has recently opened two new UK sites – a design and innovation centre at the McLaren Creation Centre in Bicester, and a testing and vehicle development facility in the Midlands.

Together with its Woking headquarters and carbon-fibre facility in South Yorkshire, they form an integrated UK operation, from design through to advanced manufacturing.

McLaren Automotive investment – reaction

Nick Collins, Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Group Holdings and McLaren Automotive said: “This investment gives us the platform to grow, develop and build on what makes us distinctive, while investing in the people, technologies and products that will keep us competitive for decades to come.”

Andy Burnham, UK Prime Minister said: “McLaren Automotive is doubling down on Britain, keeping the design, the engineering and the building of every future car here, and taking on a thousand more people to do it. Their investment will create high-quality apprenticeships, jobs and drive growth far beyond their factory gates. It is how you get skilled work, decent wages and pride back into a place.

“It’s this kind of partnership between government and business that will help us reindustrialise communities and make every part of Britain better off. I want young people to see that and know there is a future for them in making things, wherever they grew up.“

A skilled worker assembles a McLaren supercar at the line in Woking, Surrey
Image of the outside of the McLaren HQ building in Woking, Surrey

Economic Growth Fund shortlisted for prestigious national award

Published 3 September 2026

Business news, Innovation

Surrey County Council’s Economic Growth Fund has been shortlisted for a Public Finance Award 2026 in the category of Outstanding Contribution to Economic Growth, recognising its impact in supporting businesses, creating jobs and driving sustainable economic development across Surrey.

The category is new for 2026, and the Economic Growth Fund has been named on a shortlist alongside Greater Manchester Combined Authority. (See shortlist here.)

Launched to help unlock economic opportunities across the county, the Economic Growth Fund has supported a wide range of projects that are helping businesses to grow, develop skills, create employment opportunities and strengthen Surrey’s economy.
The Public Finance Awards celebrate excellence and innovation across the public sector, recognising organisations that deliver meaningful outcomes for residents, communities and local economies. Being shortlisted highlights the success of Surrey’s collaborative approach to economic growth, bringing together businesses, local authorities, education providers and other partners to maximise opportunities across the county.

The fund is a key part of Surrey County Council’s commitment to ensuring the county remains a thriving place to live, work and do business. By investing in initiatives that support enterprise, innovation and workforce development, the fund is helping to create long-term benefits for both businesses and residents.

Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth at Surrey County Council, said:
“We are delighted that the Economic Growth Fund has been shortlisted for this national award. The fund has enabled us to support ambitious projects that deliver real economic benefits for Surrey, helping businesses grow, creating opportunities for residents, strengthening our local economy and ensuring No one is left behind.”

The winners will be announced at the Public Finance Awards ceremony later this year.

About the Surrey Economic Growth Fund

To date almost £2 million has been awarded to dozens of recipients across the county via the fund. This funding has helped to unlock significant match funding and private investment, growing Surrey’s economy by £9 million.

Although the fund is currently closed to new applicants, any Surrey business looking for funding or help to grow can receive fully-funded support from Business Surrey. Get in touch to find out more via our Contact us form.

Surrey Council Growth Fund Case Studies shot on 5th February 2026. Photograph by Sam Stephenson 07880 703135 samstephenson.co.uk

Gatwick Airport’s second runway set for lift off after Court of Appeal ruling

Published 5 August 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

Work on Gatwick Airport’s second runway will soon begin. It comes as the Court of Appeal rejected campaigners’ appeal against the decision to expand the UK’s second biggest airport.

Airport leaders claim the Northern Runway project will deliver significant business, tourism and trade benefits for the UK, including 14,000 new jobs and a £1 billion boost to the economy every year.

Plans for Gatwick Airport’s second runway were initially approved by government ministers last year.

They include moving the northern runway (currently used as a standby) 12 metres. This would allow the UK’s second busiest airport to have a second fully functioning runway.

But two local campaign groups took the decision to the Court of Appeal, claiming the climate impact was not properly assessed.

This week (4 August, 2026) the Court of Appeal dismissed the case giving Gatwick the green light to start work.

Gatwick reaction

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive of London Gatwick, said: “The Court of Appeal decision to comprehensively reject the legal challenges brought by the two campaign groups opposing London Gatwick’s Northern Runway Project, confirms, yet again, that the September 2025 decision by the Secretary of State for Transport to approve the Northern Runway Project was taken properly and lawfully.

“We are also very pleased that this ruling, from senior Court of Appeal Judges, brings to an end an eight-year planning and legal process which has carefully tested and scrutinised every aspect of our expansion plans on multiple occasions.

“This final ruling means that we can now press on with the important job of bringing this exciting project to life and move forward into the design and delivery phase.

“We would like to thank everyone who has supported our planning application through the various stages and will announce further details in due course.”

About the Gatwick Airport second runway plans

London Gatwick says bringing the Northern Runway into routine use is “one of the biggest growth opportunities for the UK today”.

The £2.2 billion project is privately financed and could serve up to 80 million passengers a year. And those at the airport claim it will drive growth. They claim it will inject an additional £1 billion into the UK economy every year, creating 14,000 jobs.

It also includes a comprehensive education, skills and business strategy. This will bring maximum benefits to local people and the Gatwick region.

Plans for bringing the northern runway into use were first consulted on in 2021.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced in February 2025 she was “minded to grant” the proposal, providing key considerations were met.

Construction summer school builds interest in future careers with Surrey students

Published 20 July 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

Surrey students became property developers and construction workers for the week at a construction summer school. The hands-on work experience course for Year 10 students has been created by Wates hosted with Nescot in Epsom and part-funded by Surrey County Council.

Students from six schools across Surrey took part in the innovative event. The students, aged 14 and 15, spent a week exploring careers in construction and property.

They created plans for a housing development and presenting their ideas to industry professionals. They also experienced a current Wates Residential construction site using Nescot’s immersive virtual reality pod.

Plus they tried operating heavy machinery using advanced construction simulators, practiced carpentry skills building timber structures and developed teamwork and problem solving at an outdoor activity centre.

The scheme was run by development, building and property maintenance company Wates Group. It was part funded by Surrey County Council. Delivery partners include Nescot, Neilcott Construction, community interest company LMP Action and social enterprise Serious about Youth.

About the construction summer school

The programme saw employers, education, community organisations and local government working together to offer modern work experience to the next generation of local workforce.

Almost 40 students took part in an exciting, interactive week. There was the chance to try new things, step outside their comfort zones and build confidence.

They left with a better understanding of how their strengths and interests could translate into future roles. It also opened their eyes to careers they may not have previously considered.

The programme has been running since 2017. It supports students interested in apprenticeships and vocational courses beyond their GCSEs, rather than A levels.

By offering exposure to college life, varied career options and positive role models, it encourages, inspires, and broadens students’ horizons.

The impact of the course can be significant. Following last year’s programme, 90% of participants reported a stronger understanding of career opportunities in construction. Plus 85% said the industry sounded exciting and 72% felt their employability skills had improved.

Construction summer school – reaction

A summer school student said: “I was nervous on Monday but I’ve realised I can make friends…coming here has made me feel I’ve still got it.”

Julie Kapsalis, CEO and Principal at Nescot, said: “This scheme is incredible, bringing together industry experts and our state-of-the-art learning facilities to inspire young people who are often right at the beginning of thinking about a potential career. The programme has given them a glimpse at everything from property development and project management to construction work, architecture and engineering. I’m proud of what they achieved, and I hope they will go forward with new confidence as they consider their options for the future.”

Su Pickerill, Head of Social Value at Wates Group, said: “The summer programme is a great example of how we aim to be brilliant locally, working alongside our communities to create opportunities that truly make a difference. It’s been inspiring to see young people step beyond their comfort zones, and I hope this experience has helped unlock their potential.”

Helping young people across Surrey

The partnership working between Wates and Nescot is supported by Surrey County Council as part of a wider project to help young people into work.

Other programmes include Experience Days. These invite young people into the college for a day to provide meaningful experiences of college life and curriculum areas. They understand their options, feel supported, and become confident about coming to a college after their GCSEs.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “This investment highlights the opportunities available in one of Surrey’s growing sectors and demonstrates Surrey’s commitment to innovative pathways into further education and employment. By working in partnership with employers, training providers and colleges, we can help more young people develop the skills they need, support business growth, and create positive outcomes for Surrey’s economy while ensuring no one is left behind.”

Neilcott Construction supported the practical element of the programme. This includes arranging skilled carpenters to guide students through reading drawings, using tools safely and constructing the timber towers.

Nescot offers courses on a range of construction trades including highways maintenance, brickwork, carpentry and joinery, plastering, plumbing and electrical installation.

It also offers a wide range of other courses for school leavers and adults. This includes motor vehicles, animal care, hair and beauty, computing and IT, performing arts, childcare and health and social care.

Discover more about studying at Nescot by calling 020 8394 3038, visiting www.nescot.ac.uk or emailing adviceteam@nescot.ac.uk.

Interested in working with training providers to boost Surrey’s future workforce? Get in touch via our Contact Us form.

A man in a black suit stands talking to young people wearing high vis at a further education college in Surrey

Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan 2026-2029 launched

Published 16 July 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

Surrey’s new employer-led Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for 2026-2029 is now live. It sets out how local training equips people with skills needed by local employers.

The Surrey LSIP has been developed by Surrey Chambers of Commerce, with support from Surrey County Council and employers across the county.

It is one of 39 Local Skills Improvement Plans created across the country to ensure local training equips people with skills needed by local employers.

The aim of the updated employer-led strategy is to address the county’s key skills challenges and support long-term economic growth.

Download the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan.

What is the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan?

Surrey first developed a Local Skills Improvement Plan in 2023. The updated LSIP provides detailed insight and analysis into what priority economic sectors and jobs are for each given area.

It’s been developed through extensive employer engagement, research and stakeholder consultation. The LSIP also identifies the skills priorities that matter most to local businesses and outlines practical actions to help build a workforce equipped for the future.

The Surrey LSIP focuses on six priority areas that reflect the county’s current and future workforce needs. These include:

  • manufacturing and engineering
  • construction and the green economy
  • health and social care
  • digital technologies
  • employability skills
  • employer engagement

Together, these priorities will help ensure education and training provision remains aligned with the needs of employers. It also supports inclusive economic growth across Surrey.

The plan highlights several challenges facing the county, including skills shortages, recruitment difficulties, workforce retention and changing technological demands.

It also recognises Surrey’s strengths, including its position as a leading UK hub for Artificial Intelligence, and the opportunities this presents for businesses and learners.

What will

The launch of the LSIP marks the beginning of the delivery phase, with a range of employer-led initiatives planned over the next three years. These include:

  • encouraging more women into engineering through targeted role model programmes
  • strengthening the construction skills pipeline through a Supply Chain and Capability Exchange programme
  • delivering ‘Recruit to Retain’ leadership training for health and social care managers
  • piloting digital capability assessments for businesses
  • developing a core employability skills programme to better prepare learners for the workplace.

The Surrey LSIP will continue to evolve through collaboration with employers, education and training providers, local authorities and wider stakeholders.

A spokesman for Surrey Chambers said: “By working together, partners will help ensure Surrey develops a skilled, adaptable and resilient workforce capable of meeting the changing needs of its economy.

“Employers and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the Surrey LSIP throughout its delivery by sharing insights, participating in sector discussions and helping shape future skills provision.

“Together, these partnerships will support businesses to grow, create new opportunities for residents and strengthen Surrey’s economy for years to come.”

Phil Smith, Chair of Skills England, said: “The Local Skills Improvement Plans give areas a clear roadmap that will help create better skills for better jobs all across the country.

!These LSIPs, alongside the emerging sector jobs plans and the other stakeholder dialogues we are having, are helping us build a much better picture of the skills needs throughout the nation. Skills England is excited to play a key role in that journey, so that employers and learners can benefit in local communities.”

Find out more about the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan 2026-2029 by emailing LSIP@surrey-chambers.co.uk.

Five people in suits sit in chairs as part of a panel discussion. Behind them are banners for the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan and STEP Surrey.

Making Tax Digital: what Surrey sole traders and small businesses need to know 

Published 7 July 2026

Advice and support, Business news, Thought leadership

Making Tax Digital is a major change to the way many self-employed people and landlords manage their tax affairs. But are you fully prepared for the change? Find out what steps you need to take.

HMRC’s Making Tax Digital for Income Tax programme is transforming the traditional Self Assessment process, bringing tax reporting into the digital age.

It’s the biggest change since HMRC launched Self Assessment more than 30 years ago.

So, if you are a sole trader or receive income from property, now is the time to start preparing.

Rather than completing one annual tax return using spreadsheets, Making Tax Digital requires businesses to keep digital records using compatible software and submit updates to HMRC throughout the year.  

Under the new system, businesses will use recognised software to:  

  • record income and expenses
  • send quarterly updates to HMRC
  • submit your final tax return digitally 

HMRC offers a range of approved solutions, including popular accounting platforms such as Xero, QuickBooks and Sage. You can also use software designed to connect existing spreadsheets to HMRC through so-called “bridging software”. This means you can choose a solution that matches your budget and your way of working.  

When will Making Tax Digital be introduced?

Making Tax Digital is now mandatory for sole traders and freelancers earning over £50,000. It also applies if you earn money from property.

Government is rolling out Making Tax Digital in further two stages.  

  • From 6 April 2027, MTD for Income Tax will apply to individuals with qualifying turnover above £30,000
  • From 6 April 2028, it will extend to those with turnover above £20,000 

Early preparation can help you avoid last-minute pressure and make the change much smoother.

HMRC recommends three key steps:  

  1. understand when the rules will apply to you
  2. choose compatible software 
  3. sign up before your start date   

Free and paid software options are available, and many platforms can automate tasks such as bank transaction imports, receipt capture and expense tracking, reducing administration and saving time. 

Renée Canter, Enterprise Mentor at Business Surrey, said: “Changing your processes can feel daunting. But you may find that keeping records digitally give you better visibility to be able to track income, expenses and potential tax liabilities throughout the year, rather than waiting till January to complete you self-assessment and being surprised at the results. 

“Bite the bullet and prep now to make sure you approach the transition confidently.“

Benefits of Making Tax Digital

  • View up-to-date cash flow – useful for business planning
  • No more scrambling for lost receipts – log them as you go, instead of all at once
  • See your predicted tax bill, year round – goodbye to any January surprises
  • Make tax admin easier – software can tally up invoices for you
  • Fix any errors you spot as you go – so you don’t overpay or underpay tax

Have further questions? The FAQs section on the Making Tax Digital campaign page may be able to help.

Looking for support to grow your business? Get in touch via our Business Support Form.

Social graphis promoting HMRC's Making Tax Digital campaign

Surrey Venture Studio round two now open

Published 7 April 2026

Business news, Funding and grants

Surrey Venture Studio round two is now open for those with bright business ideas. Apply now to win £25,000 of funding and six-months of expert support to help launch and scale a new start-up.  

Surrey Venture Studio is a unique business growth initiative developed and delivered by the county’s three universities and Surrey County Council.

It is the only programme for tech businesses in the county that offers standout innovative entrepreneurs the opportunity to funding and support to turn their ideas into a reality

More than 30 early-stage innovators completed the first round of the programme, which launched last year.

Now, Surrey Venture Studio is thrilled to announce that applications for the Summer Cohort are open until 8 May. It offers even more of Surrey’s promising tech entrepreneurs to turn their early-stage innovation ideas into viable technology business ventures.

Want to know more?

What is Surrey Venture Studio?

Surrey Venture Studio offers a unique two-day workshop and pitching programme tailored for people living, working and studying in Surrey to explore the business potential of their early-stage tech idea.

Participants receive practical guidance, expert mentoring, and structured support designed to help accelerate their ideas toward commercial viability.

Following the workshops, participants then pitch to a panel of startup experts and investors.

The standout innovators receive £25,000 of funding and a place on the six-month SVS Business Accelerator, giving founders the resources and momentum to take the next major steps in their ventures.

Ody Bassioukas, Surrey Venture Studio Manager, said: “It’s been incredibly energising to see just how much progress can happen in a matter of days, ideas gaining clarity, confidence building, and new pathways starting to take shape. There’s a real momentum in the room, and it’s been inspiring to witness how quickly concepts are evolving into something tangible. The quality and originality of the ideas coming through have been exceptional, and this feels like just the beginning. I’m excited to see how these ventures continue to grow and where the next stages take them.” 

Surrey Venture Studio’s first cohort

The inaugural round saw a remarkably diverse and energetic group of innovators whose ideas spanned multiple disciplines and sectors.

More than 30 early-stage innovators took part in the process at University of Creative Arts, Royal Holloway, University of London and University of Surrey.

Participants had access throughout the workshops to seasoned mentors from across the start-up ecosystem, receiving invaluable insight, challenge, and encouragement.

Elizabeth Baldwin, Founder of Puzzle Proof – a digital, evidence-based, management system for domestic abuse survivors – said: “It’s thrilling to feel like other people see value in this [Puzzle Proof]. I know this problem exists, and I have the opportunity to solve it. I was nearly at the point of thinking, ‘Am I going to take this further? Is this worth pursuing?’ Surrey Venture Studios has given me that push, saying, ‘Yes, this is worth doing. Let’s make this dream a reality.’ I encourage others to take that same leap.”

Iain Jamieson, Chairman S100 Angel Investment Club, said: “I was delighted to be asked to be a judge at the Surrey Ventures Studio workshop for start-ups, where some very exciting new business ideas were showcased.  The event was expertly organised and is exactly the kind of support that is needed to provide nascent entrepreneurs with the ecosystem to succeed. I hope to see many of the participants seeking funding through the S100 angel investment club in the years to come.”

Looking Ahead: Round Two Now Open

Apply for Surrey Venture Studio round two until 8 May. Workshops are taking place in June at locations across Surrey.

Aspirational entrepreneurs and innovators working or studying in Surrey are encouraged to take advantage of this transformative opportunity

Want to find out more about SVS’s Summer Cohort?

You can also sign up for the Surrey Venture Studio newsletter to be kept informed of further rounds.

For full details and terms and conditions visit the Surrey Venture Studio page on our website.

Get Surrey Working Plan launches to bring thousands into work

Published 17 March 2026

Business news, Skills and workforce

The Get Surrey Working Plan is a bold cross-county plan to bring thousands of people back into work in Surrey. It’s now been launched with the backing of Surrey County Council, government ministers and employers.

The Get Surrey Working Plan brings key partners together to focus on supporting 26,900 economically inactive residents who want to work but currently face barriers to employment.

Surrey currently has a lower-than-average rate of economic inactivity at 17.8% compared to the national average of 21.2%. But around 131,000 of its working age population are not currently employed.

Government ministers and local leaders across government, Jobcentre Plus, health and business are pledging to work together to tackle the issue through a series of interventions. This includes multimillion pound schemes such as Connect to Work, Skills Bootcamps and WorkWell.

The new STEP Surrey portal will streamline access to services. It will help residents finding the right support, learning new skills and finding jobs. Plus they can access assistance in a simple and easy way.

What is the Get Surrey Working Plan?

The Get Surrey Working Plan was formally launched by representatives from the One Surrey Growth Board at Redhill JobCentre Plus.

The plan identifies the key reasons for tens of thousands of Surrey’s working age residents not working. This includes long-term health conditions and caring responsibilities.

It also addresses Surrey’s skills mismatch problem. Currently many highly skilled professionals commute to London for work, leaving local employers struggling to fill vacancies. Key sectors including health and social care, automotive, and technology are particularly affected by recruitment challenges.

To bridge this gap, the plan will deliver targeted business support and skills development programmes. The aim is helping employers fill vacancies while supporting workforce planning and inclusive employment practices.

The soon-to-be-devolved Adult Skills Fund will focus on priority sectors and skills gaps. This enables residents to gain qualifications aligned with local employer needs.

Young people without skills or access to further learning will receive early intervention support in schools to reduce the risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment, or training), with clear vocational pathways and work experience opportunities.

Why is the Get Surrey Working Plan important?

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth and Chair of the One Surrey Growth Board, said: “While the economic picture in Surrey is largely a positive one, we know that there are thousands of people out there who are currently out of work but not in employment.

“Through the Get Surrey Working, we’re committed to breaking down those barriers and creating a truly inclusive labour market where everyone has the opportunity to access good quality employment and reach their full potential.”

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden said: “The Get Surrey Working Plan is a perfect example of how partners can come together to support people into work and help local businesses find the talent they need.

“Surrey is a county with real strengths – a thriving economy, top-class businesses and talented people – yet we know there are many more people who want to work but face barriers that hold them back.

“By bringing together local employers and support services we can reach people where they are and give them a genuine route into good work. This kind of practical, locally-led support is exactly what we need to get Britain working.”

The plan has been developed through partnership working. Key stakeholders include public health colleagues, Jobcentre Plus, Surrey Chambers of Commerce and employment support providers.

The aim is to avoid duplication of services and ensure support reaches those who need it most. This is through coordinating the employment and skills offer across Surrey with a clear, joined-up local service.

To access employment and skills support through STEP Surrey, visit: www.stepsurrey.co.uk

High Streets Support programme gathers pace – with online events now available

Published 16 March 2026

Advice and support, Business news, Innovation

The High Streets Support and Innovation programme continues to be delivered across Surrey this spring. Nearly 140 businesses have registered so far – and online events are now available.

The Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme is open to a wide range of businesses. This includes independent retailers, start-ups, market traders, charities and social enterprises.

It helps high street businesses in winning new customers, boosting sales and creating growth as part of wider efforts to strengthen and futureproof centres of the community.

It’s funded by Surrey County Council’s Economic Growth Fund and delivered by specialists Smarter Society and The Retail Group. It includes free practical workshops, online resources and one-on-one tailored support.

There is also a focus on 22 high streets in all 11 of the county’s district and borough areas, with detailed workshops developed to help retailers attract more customers, boost footfall, improve visibility and increase customer spend.

Business can register for the support directly via the Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme enrolment form.

What is the High Streets Support scheme?

The High Streets Support scheme is developed in collaboration with economic development teams from district and councils. Representatives from Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) across Surrey have also been involved.

It launched last month with workshops running through February, March and April in key locations.

The Smarter Society outreach team is already pounding the pavements of Surrey’s high streets, meeting hundreds of business owners face-to-face and signing retailers up for workshops.

In the first few weeks, nearly 140 businesses have registered and 75 received support across five areas.

Four free workshops will take place in each district and borough. This will cover practical topics such as increasing footfall, improving online and in-store visibility, getting more from social media and promotions, and planning for growth.

Matt Furniss, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “High streets are the lifeblood of our communities. They’re integral to the character and vitality of our towns and villages, which is why we’re committed to supporting them alongside our district and borough partners and Business Improvement Districts.

“This programme is a real investment in the people behind Surrey’s independent businesses, giving them the tools and knowledge to thrive – which is good for our economy, our residents and our communities.”

Geoff Baxter, Managing Director of Smarter Society, said: “The Surrey High Street Growth & Innovation Programme is gaining real momentum. Businesses across the county are engaging enthusiastically with our on‑street support and workshops, and we’re proud to see such strong early signs of growth and innovation on Surrey’s high streets.”

High Streets support – online events

Are you a high street business struggling to attend in person? We’ve just released a series of online sessions to allow you to pick up tips and advice virtually.

Recordings will be available on demand afterwards.

How do I sign up?

The programme is free and open to any business trading on a Surrey high street. To find out more, visit the Business Surrey High Streets page.

Or register direct via the Surrey High Street Growth and Innovation Programme enrolment form.

Three people stand posing in a busy high street next to a promotional banner for Surrey County Council's Business Surrey service.
A high street florist smiles as she stands next to a colourful display of flowers in her shop

Fundraising data for 2025 sees £1 billion boost to Surrey economy

Published 9 March 2026

Business news, Funding and grants, Innovation

Fundraising data for 2025 highlights a £1 billion boost to Surrey’s economy in the last year. The top 20 businesses alone brought in millions of pounds and created dozens of new roles, helping cement Surrey as one of the UK’s regional economies.

Data supplied by private company data platform Beauhurst and its partners Mercia Ventures shows there were 111 fundraisings from registered businesses with trading offices in Surrey in 2025. In total more than £1 billion is estimated to have been raised.

This is nearly half the total amount raised across the whole of the south east (£2.25 billion). Plus one in six deals in the last year across the south east took place in Surrey (111 out of 667).

The largest was McLaren, the Woking-based automotive company, which is estimated to have raised £811 million in December 2025.

The figures are highlighted in a report called The Deal 2026, compiled by Beauhurst Insights and Mercia Ventures.

It examines all equity investments received by UK-headquartered companies across all industries.

Key findings from The Deal include:

  • Amount raised into UK companies in 2025 has increased by 3.34% from last year
  • Number of first-time deals in 2025 has increased by 23.6% year on year
  • Amount raised has also reached a record high since 2020, up 74.3% to £6.27b
  • Total number of deals has continued to ease, down 7.87% from 2024

Fundraising in 2025 – top 20 Surrey businesses

  1. McLaren (automotive) – £811 million
  2. Gordon Murray Design (automotive) – £88.9 million
  3. AFC Energy (renewables) – £23 million
  4. Nature Metrics (environmental) – £20.3 million
  5. CelLBxHealth (biotechnology) – £6.8 million
  6. Futura Medical (biotechnology) – £2.75 million
  7. Evolve Dynamics (aerospace) – £2.73 million
  8. The HOPP (sports and leisure) – £2.45 million
  9. Orthofuse (manufacturing) – £2.2 million
  10. Fiinu (financial) – £3.25 million
  11. Bruce’s (pets) – £1.75 million
  12. Hofmeister (beverages) – £1.74 million
  13. Money Guided (financial services) – £1.55 million
  14. Assisted Living Project (property) – £1.54 million
  15. Mater-AI (clean energy) – £1.5 million
  16. Bots For That (accounting) – £1.5 million
  17. BetterPoints (technology) – £1.34 million
  18. Limetrack (technology) – £1.32 million
  19. Cignpost (medical) – £1. 26 million
  20. SchoolsMobile.com (technology) – £1.09 million

Fundraising data 2025 and The Deal

The fundraising date for 2025 is presented in a report titled The Deal 2026.

Will Clark, Managing Director for Mercia Ventures, writes: “This year’s data suggests that the UK equity market is not retreating so much as refining its focus, and that founders remain firmly at the centre of that recalibration.”

He adds: “While the overall number of deals eased again in 2025, the amount of capital being deployed did not. Total equity investment rose modestly year on year, and average deal sizes continued to increase, passing £4m for the first time since 2021.”

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