Skip to main content
We’re here with practical marketing information for your business.

Search

How to create a marketing plan for your small business - build a brand, target customers and set prices that will maximise sales.

The internet has transformed business marketing. No matter what you do, the internet is likely to be at the heart of your marketing strategy.

Social media is firmly established as a marketing tool. Having a presence opens up new lines of communication with existing and potential customers.

Advertising allows you to promote your business to potential and existing customers. It can take the form of direct mail, email marketing, online and print advertising, leaflets, outdoor advertising on billboards and buses or sponsorship.

Customer care is at the heart of all successful companies. It can help you develop customer loyalty and improve relationships with your customers.

Sales bring in the money that enables your business to survive and grow. Your sales strategy will be driven by your sales objectives.

Market research exists to guide your business decisions by giving you insight into your market, competitors, products, marketing and your customers.

If you don't promote your business, potential customers will never know you exist or discover what you have to offer.

Sage’s Small Business XI Competition launches

16 June 2025

Sage has partnered with The Hundred cricket tournament to launch a competition that celebrates small businesses.

Sage, the leader in accounting, financial, HR, and payroll technology for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), has partnered with cricket legends and entrepreneurs Stuart Broad and Nat Sciver-Brunt to launch this year’s Sage Small Business XI competition. The competition offers eleven deserving SMB winners a share of a £50,000 prize pot to help grow their business and achieve their dreams.

SMBs work hard to serve their local communities; however, this hard work and dedication does not come without it’s challenges. From dealing with supply chain issues to navigating product marketing, it can be difficult for SMBs to thrive in our current economic climate. Because of this, approximately 20% of small businesses fail within their first year of operation (Fundsquire, 2021). This competition will celebrate the unsung local heroes of the economy.

Sage aims to help SMBs tackle some of their challenges and knock down barriers by providing small businesses with the tools and technology they need to help them thrive. Each of these businesses will be rewarded with a share of a £50,000 grant to help their business, along with a ticket to the final of this summer’s The Hundred cricket tournament. Moreover, as part of the competition win, each will gain access to Sage’s innovative technology, insights, and expertise, further helping to alleviate some of the pressures they face and supporting their growth and success.

Commenting on the launch, Stuart Broad said; "I’m delighted to be partnering with Sage for the Small Business XI competition again this summer. Being a small business owner, and Sage customer, myself, I know the important role businesses play in their local communities, as well as the challenges facing smaller businesses, in particular, when trying to thrive in the current economic climate.

We want to reward small business owners who will benefit not only from a financial business grant, but from the valuable resources, expert guidance and access to cutting-edge technology from Sage. I can’t wait to see who gets selected for my Sage Small Business XI over the coming weeks."

Sage plans to champion the stories of the winning business owners, showcasing their journeys and the impact the prize has had on their businesses.

Sally Moore, Senior Director of Global Sponsorship at Sage added; "Telling the stories of small businesses is always a priority for Sage. Through our role as the Official Finance Software Partner of The Hundred we hope to champion small businesses, as well as reach new ones from across the UK, to give them the support they need to grow and thrive."

Entry to the Sage Small Business XI is open now. Visit the Sage website for more details and to enter.

The Prize:

Winners receive an all-expenses-paid VIP experience at The Hundred, including:

  • A £10,000 business grant grand prize and £4,000 business grant for 10 runner ups.
  • 2 x Hospitality tickets at The Hundred Final including accommodation on the night of The Hundred Final and £400 to cover travel.
  • In stadium branding at one local The Hundred match during the Group Stage.

Competition closes: 12:00pm on Monday 7 July 2025. T&Cs apply. UK Only. 18+. Judged competition.

Written by Sage.

Stay up-to-date with business advice and news

Sign up to our lively and colourful newsletter for new and more established small businesses.