Somerset businesses looking to start or grow exporting now have access to a free source of expertise few SMEs can usually tap into: the UK’s own diplomatic network. The Diplomatic Advisory Hub, a joint initiative between the FCDO and the British Chambers of Commerce, offers businesses direct insight from the UK’s international diplomats, entirely free of charge.

Led by a former UK Ambassador, the Hub provides outreach, webinars, personalised one-to-one support and referrals to the right trade support, in and outside government. It’s aimed particularly at SMEs, since smaller businesses are less likely to have in-house geopolitical expertise. In 2023, there were over 2.7 million UK SMEs, yet only around 12% were exporters, showing just how much untapped potential there is.

Upcoming webinar: Trading with the EU

Businesses exporting to the EU, or considering their first sale, can join a free webinar on Tuesday 15 September at 9:00am, featuring experts from the UK Government’s EU team, the British Chambers of Commerce and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, covering the current UK-EU trading relationship, future opportunities and practical export tips.

Join the webinar: https://www.business.gov.uk/business-academy/events/trading-with-the-eu-opportunities-challenges-and-whats-next-15-september-2026/