Advertising is getting more and more invisible with 86% of internet users ignoring display ads because of “banner blindness”. People see between 1,700 and 2,000 online banners every month, but most of them go unnoticed. On top of that, 63% of millennials actively use ad blockers. No wonder so many ads can not break through: 54% of users never click on banners at all.
The Business AI Alliance, spearheaded by 4most, was launched on the 9th September at a Parliamentary Reception. The new alliance brings together sector-based organisations committed to shaping national AI policy with a focus on growth and influence, providing much needed SME representation in the face of big tech dominance and aspiring to a clear, positive narrative around AI’s economic potential for the UK.
AI is increasingly becoming the workplace’s first line of support, with a third (33%) of Gen Z professionals now using AI tools for work-related questions before asking their manager or colleagues, according to new findings from global talent solutions partner Robert Walters.
Plum, the smart money app trusted by millions, has unveiled its AI-powered tool built on Google Cloud and enabled by Google’s Gemini models.
New research from Kore.ai reveals that a shortage of specialised AI talent is slowing UK enterprises’ ability to scale and realise return on investment on AI pilots. Despite overall optimism into AI implementation across enterprises, over a third of UK businesses (36%) are faced with a lack of AI expertise when implementing a new AI solution, acting as a handbrake on progress.
Fyxer AI, creator of the AI-powered executive assistant designed for everyday professionals, today announced a $30 million Series B funding round led by Madrona, with participation from Lakestar Capital.
A new survey from The Open University reveals a growing dilemma for UK businesses: almost all leaders (96%) see growth as central to their strategy, particularly in the context of the UK Government’s priority mission in achieving strong, secure, and sustainable economic growth by 2035. Yet nearly three in four admit it often comes at the expense of workforce diversity and inclusion goals (72%) and sustainability and net zero efforts (71%).
UK employees were off sick for nearly two full working weeks (9.4 days) on average in the last 12 months. This is a significant jump compared to pre-pandemic levels (5.8 days), and 7.8 days in 2023 when this survey was last carried out.
UK and Netherlands-based cybersecurity and compliance company Naq has successfully closed a €6 million Series A funding round to accelerate its mission to help health technology companies meet essential NHS standards amid rising cyber threats and regulatory delays.
This November, women from every walk of life will gather for a one-of-a-kind event that redefines what empowerment truly means. The WomenIN Festival 2025, happening on 13–14 November at Cape Town’s iconic Newlands Cricket Ground, is more than a celebration – it’s a catalyst for connection, change, and collective power.
Launching a startup in the UK has never been more attractive. In 2024, founders raised over $17 billion, making the UK Europe’s leading hub for early-stage ventures and home to 30+ unicorns. But behind the buzz lies a stark reality: up to 90% of startups can fail – and for many, the first 90 days can determine the trajectory.
ASML has invested €1.3 billion in Mistral’s Series C funding round as the lead investor. This has resulted in ASML holding an approximate 11% share on a fully diluted basis in Mistral AI. The total funding for the Series C round totals €1.7 billion, at a €11.7 billion post-money valuation.
For e-commerce businesses, the last quarter (Q4) is often the busiest and most lucrative time of the year with Prime Day, Halloween, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-year sales.
Microsoft laid off 9,000 workers, citing artificial intelligence (AI) developments. Goldman Sachs announced it is deploying digital co-workers to enhance human performance and drive productivity. One story grabs headlines. The other reveals the future.
The short- and medium-term investment plans of UK small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) have been hit hard by the recent changes to international trade tariffs.
Runna, the running coaching app, has launched the start of internationalisation on the platform. The app is now available in seven new languages, unlocking access to personalised running training plans for millions of new runners worldwide.
Skylark Lasers, a diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) laser specialist, has appointed international business development consultancy Intralink to accelerate its growth in China.
BoobyBiome, a London-based biotechnology company advancing the science of breast milk and the microbiome, has raised £2.5 million in seed funding for its infant feeding solutions. Founded in 2019 by a team of female scientists-turned-entrepreneurs – Dr. Lydia Mapstone, Dr. Sioned Jones, and Dr. Tara O’Driscoll – BoobyBiome plans to tackle the rising rates of infant health issues by harnessing the power of the breast milk microbiome.
Throxy, an outbound growth partner for companies selling into traditional industries, has announced a $6.2 million seed round led by Base10 Partners with participation from Y Combinator.
Aonic, a global group of tech and gaming companies, has acquired research technology firm Prime Insights for a total transaction value in excess of $250 million.
