Published: 3/31/2025
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Glasgow and across the UK, the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit scheme is a golden opportunity to unlock significant financial relief. Yet, a staggering 80% of eligible businesses fail to claim what they’re entitled to. Why? The process can feel overwhelmingly complex, and many assume it’s only for “tech” companies with labs and white coats. At Countify, based right here in Glasgow, we’re here to set the record straight: R&D tax relief is more accessible than you think, and our expert team can help you maximise your claim.
The Hidden Cost of Underclaiming
The UK government’s R&D tax credit scheme is designed to reward innovation, offering generous tax relief or cash credits to businesses that invest in developing new products, processes, or services. However, the complexity of identifying qualifying activities and navigating HMRC’s requirements leaves many SMEs in the dark. According to recent estimates, 80% of eligible businesses either underclaim or miss out entirely, leaving millions of pounds unclaimed each year.
For Glasgow’s vibrant business community—spanning manufacturing, food and drink, construction, and more—this is a missed opportunity. Whether you’re a startup or an established firm, failing to claim R&D tax relief could mean you’re leaving vital funds on the table, funds that could fuel growth, hire new talent, or invest in further innovation.
What Qualifies as R&D? It’s Broader Than You Think
One of the biggest misconceptions is that R&D tax credits are reserved for high-tech industries or businesses with dedicated research labs. In reality, HMRC’s definition of R&D is much broader. It includes any work that seeks to advance knowledge or capability in your field, even if it doesn’t succeed. This means that “non-tech” businesses can qualify too.
For example:
✔️ A Glasgow bakery experimenting with new recipes to extend shelf life or reduce allergens could qualify.
✔️ A construction firm developing a more efficient building technique or adapting to new materials might be eligible.
✔️ A manufacturer tweaking machinery to improve output or reduce waste could claim.
These are just a few examples of the qualifying activities our experts at Countify uncover every day. If your business has faced a technical challenge and worked to solve it, there’s a good chance you’re eligible for relief—even if you didn’t realise it at the time.
How We Simplify the Process
At Countify, we understand that SMEs don’t have time to wrestle with HMRC guidelines or decipher technical jargon. That’s where our dedicated R&D tax credit specialists come in. Based in the heart of Glasgow, we combine local knowledge with national expertise to make the process seamless.
Here’s how we help:
- Identify Qualifying Activities: We dig into your operations to uncover R&D efforts you might not have recognised. From failed prototypes to process improvements, we ensure nothing is overlooked.
- Maximise Your Claim: Our team calculates the full extent of your eligible costs—think staff time, materials, software, and even subcontractor fees—to ensure you get every penny you’re entitled to.
- Handle the Paperwork: We prepare and submit your claim to HMRC, ensuring compliance and accuracy so you can focus on running your business.
Why Glasgow Businesses Choose Us
As a Glasgow-based accountancy firm, we’re proud to support the city’s diverse SME community. We’ve worked with businesses across sectors, helping them unlock thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—in tax relief they didn’t know they could claim. Our team’s expertise means we can spot opportunities others miss, and our local presence ensures we’re always on hand to answer your questions.
Don’t Leave Money on the Table
The R&D tax credit scheme isn’t just for Silicon Valley giants or futuristic startups—it’s for businesses like yours. With 80% of eligible SMEs missing out, now’s the time to act. Whether you’re in tech or a traditional trade, our team at Countify can help you turn complexity into cash.
Ready to see if you qualify? Contact us today for a no-obligation chat with one of our R&D experts. Let’s make sure you’re not part of the 80%—because your innovation deserves to be rewarded.