Professional and Business Services

The UK is a global leader in professional and business services (PBS) — from law, accountancy and consultancy to advertising and architecture.

The sector provides 1 in 7 jobs across the UK and is a trusted adviser to businesses at home and around the world.

The PBS Sector Plan sets out how government and industry will work together to ensure the most dynamic and productive PBS sector that can remain the world's second largest exporter of professional services.

What this means in practice

  • A £118 million R&D investment is driving technology adoption and innovation across legal, management consulting and accountancy sectors.
  • In Leeds, the Northern Square Mile is being backed through the Office for Investment to attract global financial and professional services firms and unlock new office space through the Leeds South Bank project.
  • The UK-Switzerland Services Mobility Agreement extended to 2029, allowing UK professionals to continue to travel to Switzerland and work visa-free for up to 90 days. In 2025, the UK’s PBS exports to Switzerland were worth almost £9bn.
  • Through the new UK-GCC trade deal, UK PBS firms and professionals can benefit from guaranteed access to visas and improved length of stay commitments, as well as provisions that encourage relevant bodies to engage on the recognition of professional qualifications.

These are not one-off decisions. They are part of a long-term plan — giving professional and business services firms the confidence to invest, hire and grow.

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Sector plan

The PBS Sector Plan sets out the joined-up decisions government is making on technology adoption, skills, growth finance and international standards — giving PBS businesses the stability they need to make long-term decisions.

Latest informationopens assets.publishing.service.gov.uk in a new tab
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A targeted mix of support for the sector

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British Business Bank

Supporting PBS firms through the £4 billion Industrial Strategy Growth Capital programme.

Discover British Business Bankopens www.british-business-bank.co.uk in a new tab
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Innovate UK

Funding and support for PBS firms developing and adopting new technologies, including AI and automation.

Visit Innovate UKopens www.ukri.org in a new tab
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National Wealth Fund

We offer a range of financing tools including loans, guarantees and equity investments.

Visit National Wealth Fundopens www.nationalwealthfund.org.uk in a new tab
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UK Export Finance

Provides a guarantee to banks financing international buyers’ early‑stage UK services purchases.

Early Project Services Guarantee - UK Export Financeopens www.ukexportfinance.gov.uk in a new tab

Support to scale and grow your business

Access a broad package of support designed to help businesses scale more quickly, at lower cost, and with greater ease, including

  • • Step-by-step guidance through the practical steps to scale your business
  • • Overview of funding, grants and financial incentives available
  • • Information on events and networks relevant to the business sector and industry

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