SME Tax Reform Push: Nigeria’s states move to end overlapping levies as 18 states adopt a harmonised tax law, aiming to cut duplication and ease micro-business burdens while using tech to reduce revenue leakages. Workforce & Skills: New College Durham opens a Training and Skills Development facility to help employers of all sizes close skills gaps and build grow-ready workforces. Export Credit for SMEs: Pakistan’s PM backs a Rs3 billion export insurance risk pool via EDF and EXIM Bank to expand SME access to credit insurance and boost exports. SME Talent Shift in FinTech: A new trend points to senior FinTech developers leaving corporate roles for fractional and contract work, reshaping how SMEs and startups can staff expertise. Cyber & HR Risk: A staffing firm HumanEdge faces a class-action investigation after a breach may have exposed names and Social Security numbers, a reminder for SME HR tech buyers to tighten security. Disaster Aid Pressure: California wildfire recovery support is at risk as FEMA Disaster Case Management funding reportedly runs out early, threatening access to SBA loans and other recovery pathways for affected small businesses. Mentoring for Owners: Worcestershire’s Mentoring programme matches entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders, reporting improved confidence and clearer growth strategies. SME Access to Government Contracts: Fort Worth hosts a free “Mission-Ready” summit for small and veteran-owned businesses on finding opportunities, certifications, and bidding. SME Growth via AI Training: Huawei’s Women in Tech programme trains 50 women business owners with practical AI and cloud skills under a “Small Business. Big Intelligence” theme.