£125m web portal push helps SMEs cut red tape

The government is spending up to £125m to give small businesses information online.

Serco has been selected as prime contractor to provide the UK government with web-based information services for small businesses. The company signed a contract with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) which will run for five years with up to four additional one-year renewals, and which could be worth up to £125m.

The company will be responsible for developing and delivering the 'business.gov' programme. This will involve working with government departments including DTI, the Treasury, Companies House, the Cabinet Office and HM Revenue and Customs.

The programme's objective is to help develop new businesses and shape government services according to the demands of SMEs.

Services will include the www.businesslink.gov.uk portal, which provides advice and guidance to small businesses from across local, regional and national government, and helps them to cut through red tape.

Serco Group CEO Christopher Hyman said in a statement: "The Small Business Service is a government flagship service for SMEs. Part of the SBS mission is to foster entrepreneurial cultures and help people achieve their potential."