The research, conducted by Small Business Britain to look at the issues the nation’s 5.5 million small businesses need support with this year, also found that 61% of small business owners identify sales and customer acquisition as a priority for growing their business, and almost half (49%) want to boost their social media content and creation skills.

And in response Small Business Britain is launching a new programme in partnership with Adobe Express to help small business owners boost their marketing skills and drive sales.

Up to 500 small businesses across the UK will be able to sign up to take part in the Small Business Britain x Adobe Express Marketing School – a free six-week course designed to help super-charge marketing efforts and build skills in the fundamentals of creative design.

Starting on Tuesday 25th February the course will showcase the power of Adobe Express, the quick and easy create-anything app that enables businesses to create professional-quality marketing materials, logos, branding assets, and even printed flyers – all without any prior design experience.

Each week Adobe’s Senior Manager of Product, Andy Lambert – a small business founder himself – will lead interactive workshops tailored to practical, real-world marketing applications.

The sessions will feature Eva Thorne, Founder of Garden of Eva in London, from Small Business Britain’s community, acting as a live case study testing out the technology, giving participants a firsthand look at how Adobe Express can transform marketing efforts.

Eva, whose business manufactures pickles and condiments inspired by the American Deep South, is keen to upskill in marketing to reach new audiences and drive sales, and said: “Marketing is everything for a small brand like mine and I am keen to focus on it more. I haven't had the bandwidth, big budget, or skills to really take marketing on, so I'm grateful and excited to take part in this program. I always welcome the chance to pick up new skills, so learning about Adobe Express, especially with the support of their team, is a great opportunity. I’m keen to end up with brand assets that will be eye-catching and enticing for possible customers.”

The weekly sessions will be centred around weekly themes including; building a brand identity, video marketing strategies and succeeding on social media. Each session will include hands-on demonstrations, showing how Adobe Express can be used to create everything from dynamic social media content to standout logos, helping businesses produce compelling visuals quickly and efficiently. Participants will also have access to a course LinkedIn group where they can share learnings and network with other members of the small business community.

"Marketing is such a crucial area for small businesses, yet it can often feel overwhelming for those with limited time, budget, or expertise,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain.

“Our research highlights just how important this area is for small business growth, and by partnering with Adobe Express, we’re giving entrepreneurs the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. This course will turn what may seem like a daunting task into an exciting opportunity to enhance their brand and connect with customers."

Claire Darley, Vice President at Adobe said: "At Adobe, we are passionate about empowering small business owners with accessible, professional-quality design tools. Our mission is to simplify the creative process so entrepreneurs can save time and money while focusing on what truly matters – growing their businesses.  

“Through this partnership between Adobe Express and Small Business Britain, we’re excited to provide practical skills and inspiration to help entrepreneurs stand out in an increasingly competitive market. This course will equip small business owners with the confidence and tools they need to create compelling marketing content effortlessly."

Small businesses can learn more about the Small Business Britain x Adobe Express Marketing School and sign up here.