TikTok launches first SME Council to 'amplify small business voices'

TikTok has introduced a new SME Council for small businesses, which aims to empower entrepreneurs by giving them a stronger voice in shaping policies that boost growth.

The initiative is made up of 20 small businesses who are among a growing number of UK SMEs using TikTok to reach new customers and sell their products on the social media platform.

Beyond simple transactions, this ranges from LIVE Shopping via TikTok Shop and selling via shoppable ads, to taking people behind-the-scenes of running a business through organic content.

Members of the SME Council represent diverse communities across the UK and cover a range of industries, from wig brand Hair Anatomy and dermatologically-approved natural skincare business Solo Skin London to resale platform Luxe Collective.

The SME Council held its first meeting on 4 April in Stoke-on-Trent, where members shared their experiences of running businesses in the UK and using TikTok to support their growth.

Insights from these meetings will help shape the social media platform's first TikTok SME Manifesto, with the aim of boosting SME growth, developing skills and encouraging entrepreneurship.

Ali Law, Director of Public Policy & Government Affairs at TikTok UK, said: "TikTok gives small businesses the opportunity to be discovered by new communities, the creative tools to engage authentically and, ultimately, the chance to put their products in the hands of an ever-growing number of UK consumers. It's why SMEs across the country come to TikTok every day to share their passions, reach new customers and grow their businesses.

"By launching our new SME Council, we're taking our support of these businesses beyond the TikTok app, giving them a platform to call for policies that will unlock the next phase of their growth."

Since 2018, TikTok has emerged as an important platform for SMEs to connect with customers and grow their businesses.

It is now home to more than 1.5 million UK firms, from family ventures and emerging side-hustles, to promising scale-ups that have leveraged TikTok to promote their products and services.

In fact, the platform has emerged as the fastest growing online retailer in 2024, with a 131% annual increase in the number of shoppers on TikTok Shop, and a 180% rise in revenue at the end of last year, according to new research from Neilson IQ.

Dominique Bogle Khan, founder of Hair Anatomy, said: "TikTok has truly transformed our business. It’s given small brands like ours the chance to not only showcase our products but also build genuine connections with our community.

"Being part of the SME Council is such an incredible opportunity — we’re all at different stages in our journey, and it’s inspiring to learn from one another, share insights, and support fellow entrepreneurs. I’m excited to see how the council evolves and continues to shape the future of small business growth."