Horsham, a charming market town in West Sussex, has evolved into a vibrant base for small businesses and entrepreneurs. With its rich historical appeal, robust local economy, and convenient location, Horsham is fertile ground for success. 

A Growing Economy with Diverse Sectors

The economy in Horsham is made up of a wide mix of industries, making it resilient and ripe with opportunities.

In recent years, employment across multiple sectors has surged, creating a healthy job market that’s great for small businesses. Currently, Horsham has around 53,923 employees, with a 6.20% increase in job growth. A strong expansion in the local economy that offers small businesses access to a skilled workforce and potential clients.

Leading Sectors Fuelling Growth:

1. Professional, Scientific, and Technical Activities (19.76%)
2. Construction (11.51%)
3. Retail Trade and Vehicle Repair (10.75%)

Horsham's strong focus on these sectors means the town has a balanced and reliable economic base. 

The town is positioning itself as a forward-thinking business hub where both established “real world” industries and emerging digital businesses can thrive.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the Heart of Horsham

Horsham boasts a high concentration of SMEs, with around 8,791 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) forming the backbone of the local economy. 

This concentration fosters an ecosystem of local networking events and gatherings where entrepreneurs can connect and support each other’s growth. Additionally, the presence of over 60 scale-up businesses demonstrates Horsham’s capacity to support not only small but growing businesses that are ready to expand.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

Horsham’s location is another factor that makes it a magnet for small businesses. 

Situated within the Gatwick Diamond area, the town offers businesses excellent connections with broader markets. Proximity to Gatwick Airport, London, and the South Coast makes Horsham an ideal base for companies aiming to expand nationally and internationally.

Key Transportation Links:

• Direct rail connections to London Victoria and London Bridge.
• Quick access to major roads like the M23, A23 and A24.
• Proximity to Gatwick Airport, provides easy access to international destinations.

Support Systems for Business Growth

Local government and business organisations in Horsham have implemented several initiatives to nurture the growth of small businesses:

Funding Opportunities

Local funding schemes are essential for small businesses, allowing them to innovate, expand, and manage operational costs effectively. Some available funding options include:

1. LEAP Funding: Offers up to £5,000 for start-ups and small businesses with fewer than 20 employees.
2. Horsham Visitor Experience Grants: Grants up to £5,000 to improve the visitor experience, making it a boost for tourism-related businesses.
3. Rural England Prosperity Fund: Capital funding specifically designed for rural businesses looking to grow.

Business Rate Relief

To alleviate the operational cost burden, various forms of business rate relief are available, helping eligible businesses save on costs and enhance profitability. 

These programs provide critical financial support that allows small business owners to focus on growth and development without being overwhelmed by their overhead expenses.

Networking and Community Support

Horsham is home to numerous networking opportunities that encourage small business owners to connect and collaborate. 

Local networks such as the Billingshurst & Horsham Chamber of Commerce, Horsham Coworking, multiple BNI groups, Lello Networking, Three Bridges FC Networking Mornings, HRUFC Networking Mornings and Women in Business provide valuable platforms for knowledge-sharing and community support.

The Role of Accountancy in Horsham’s Business Landscape

Accountancy plays an essential role in any town’s business ecosystem. 

Horsham Accountants provide businesses with the financial expertise necessary to make sound business decisions and comply with complex tax regulations. 

Accountants in Horsham work with small business owners to maintain accurate financial records and develop realistic budgets. Helping them make informed decisions about cash flow, investment, and long-term planning.

Many accountants in Horsham also go beyond basic financial management, offering business advisory services that are particularly valuable for perhaps inexperienced small businesses. Including guidance on business structure, cash flow management, growth strategies, and even succession planning. 

Proximity to Curve Accountancy in Crawley: We’re Just Down The Road!

Having a trusted accountancy firm just a short distance away is invaluable. Horsham’s proximity to Curve Accountancy, down the road in nearby Crawley, provides an added advantage for businesses.

Curve Accountancy goes far beyond the remit of a standard Horsham accountancy firm. Offering extensive specialist expertise and year round support services that can drive growth and success for Horsham-based businesses.

Whether it’s help with financial planning, tax optimisation, or business growth strategies, Curve Accountancy has you covered.

Why Horsham Businesses Should Choose Curve Accountancy:

1. Close Collaboration: Being just a 15 minute drive from Horsham, Curve Accountancy can provide in-person consultations from their office in Three Bridges and remote hands-on support.
2. Local Market Insight: Curve Accountancy understands the nuances of the local market, making them well-equipped to offer tailored advice to newcomers and long-time residents that’s relevant no matter where you are in Sussex’s unique business landscape.
3. Comprehensive Services: From tax planning and compliance to business advisory and financial reporting, Curve Accountancy’s services cover all the essential areas that small businesses need to succeed.

Partnering with Curve Accountancy allows Horsham businesses to benefit from experienced professionals who are highly accessible and deeply invested in helping local businesses grow.

Overcoming Challenges: Opportunities for Growth

While Horsham offers a supportive environment, small businesses also face challenges. By focusing on improvement areas, local businesses can stand out from their competition and explode their growth:

1. Productivity Enhancement: Horsham’s productivity, as measured by Gross Value Added (GVA) per head, currently trails behind other areas in West Sussex. Small businesses have a significant opportunity to drive productivity through technology like AI, streamlined processes, and more efficient resource allocation.
2. Bridging the Gender Gap: In Horsham, only 20.18% of business founders are female. This gender gap in leadership presents an opportunity to create more inclusive business environments that can benefit from diverse perspectives and approaches.
3. Adapting to Economic Shifts: Shifting trends like hybrid work models and increased online shopping have impacted Horsham’s traditional economy. Businesses that adapt to these changes, such as implementing flexible work policies or building a strong online presence, are well-positioned compared to their slow to act contemporaries.

Sustainable Growth Strategies for Horsham Businesses

To capitalise on Horsham’s strengths and overcome challenges, small businesses should consider the following strategies:

1. Digital Transformation: Embrace technology to improve operational efficiency and expand customer reach. Digital tools can streamline workflows, automate routine tasks, and enhance customer experiences.
2. Local Partnerships and Collaborations: Leveraging Horsham’s networking opportunities allows businesses to build meaningful partnerships, share resources, and create synergies for growth.
3. Focus on Environmental and Social Responsibility: Increasingly, consumers prefer businesses that invest in sustainable practices. By integrating sustainability into operations, Horsham businesses can appeal to a growing demographic of eco-conscious consumers.
4. Employee Development: Upskilling employees not only helps businesses remain competitive but also enhances productivity, retention and innovation. Small businesses should consider investing in continuous training programs to support a skilled workforce.

Conclusion: Looking for a Thriving Base of Entrepreneurship? You Could Do Much Worse Than Horsham

Horsham’s robust economy, convenient location, and support systems make it an ideal place for small businesses to grow. With its thriving network of SMEs, reliable funding opportunities, and access to professional accountancy services from nearby Curve Accountancy, the town offers everything a business needs to thrive.

For Horsham businesses, partnering with an experienced accountancy firm like Curve Accountancy provides an added advantage, enabling business owners to focus on growth while leaving financial complexities to trusted experts. 

As Horsham continues to adapt and evolve, businesses that embrace digitalisation, prioritise community connections, and seek professional financial guidance will be well-positioned for long-term success.