The FSB is a not-for-profit organisation that represents small and medium-sized businesses. Originally formed in 1974 as the National Federation of Self Employed it changed to its current name in 1991. As well as the important networking element, other benefits of joining include: a legal advice hub and protections scheme, cyber protection helpline and insurance, tax investigation protection, debt recovery service, health and safety advice, plus a range of benefits and discounts on typical small business services from third-party providers.

Established over 45 years ago to help our members succeed in business, we are a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by our members, for our members.

We have had huge influence on making change and influencing policy – recently securing a £940 million reduction in business rates for small firms; a freeze on the VAT threshold as well as on fuel duty. We also persuaded the Government to adopt a reform package to stop late payments to small businesses.

Our Mission

We have had huge influence on making change and influencing policy – recently securing a £940 million reduction in business rates for small firms; a freeze on the VAT threshold as well as on fuel duty. We also persuaded the Government to adopt a reform package to stop late payments to small businesses.

We’ve successfully campaigned for small firms to be excluded from the IR35 extension; and secured a £675 million Future High Street Fund. We successfully campaigned for the abolishment of the unfair ‘staircase tax’ and the halving of apprenticeship training co-investment.

The 5.8 million small businesses in the UK make up 99.3 per cent of all private sector businesses. They contribute a staggering amount to the UK’s local and national economies, as well as being a major source of employment. We encourage our members to get involved with our work – from engaging with our campaigns, to standing in our local and national member volunteer elections. Together, we are stronger.