The landscape of R&D differs significantly between SMEs and large companies, driven largely by the scale and scope of their operations.
For SMEs, R&D is often about agility and innovation - leveraging limited resources to make breakthroughs that can set them apart from larger competitors. These smaller enterprises tend to focus on niche markets or specialised products, where the ability to quickly adapt and innovate is crucial. However, we know that navigating the complexities of R&D tax credits can be daunting for SMEs, as they often lack the internal resources to manage these claims effectively (this is where our personalised support becomes invaluable).

Large companies operate differently. R&D in these environments is typically more structured and extensive, often involving multiple projects across various departments or even countries. These organisations invest heavily in R&D, aiming not just for innovation but also for market dominance. The stakes are high, and so are the potential returns. With great scale comes great complexity: managing R&D tax credits at this level requires a nuanced understanding of intricate regulations and the ability to integrate these claims seamlessly into broader financial strategies. 

Practically, there are two different schemes - SME and RDEC. These have now merged for accounting periods started on or after April 2024. Depending on your financial year-end, you may still be on the old separate schemes for a while. Talk to us to find out more.

At QLC, we tailor our approach to suit the specific demands of each business, whether it’s helping an SME make the most of every R&D pound or ensuring a large company maximises its return on substantial investments.