On Friday I visited the Barclays Eagle Labs in avenue hq on Mann Island to hear about the help and support they offer to entrepreneurs and small to medium businesses (SMEs). They provide start-up advice, growth support and help with scaling up business. They are a shared space to help businesses build with their dedicated network of advisors.

I met some of the businesses who work from the building, including Student Saviour, who offer a range of discounts and giveaways for university students. They benefit from the relaxed, modern surrounds and access to help and support alongside similar start-ups.

SMEs are vital to the UK, providing employment, innovation and investment in the economy. Figures released in August 2022 show they employ 44% of the British workforce and contribute more than £2 trillion in turnover nationally. It is good to see that the Liverpool Eagle Lab is helping to support and promote such businesses locally.