Iain Butler

Head of Innovation Incentives, Buzzacott

Iain joined Buzzacott in 2018, bringing with him over two decades of R&D claim experience across various sectors, with both small and multinational businesses. His extensive R&D tax and patent box experience provides Iain with a detailed and in-depth understanding of R&D incentive schemes and their application to diverse business operations. Before joining Buzzacott, Iain also worked in the R&D Tax Credit teams of two Big 4 accountancy firms.

Before specialising in R&D tax credits, Iain spent ten years as an R&D team manager and engineer himself in the space, semiconductor, and media industries, so truly understands the challenges these teams face. During this time, he led the design and launch of innovative products and managed an R&D team delivering a new format printing media product.

Buzzacott is an accountancy and advisory firm that provides tailored expertise for private clients, businesses and not-for-profit organisations. Over 600 of us work under one roof at our office in London, St Paul's, to provide the highest calibre advice and a joined-up service.

We’re specialists in audit, tax, VAT, corporate finance, and a host of outsourceable functions, from accounting to HR consultancy. We provide advice for both UK and international clients with a UK connection, and assist with financial planning, investment portfolios, tax investigations and dispute resolution, property, running businesses and expatriate tax. Whatever you need, expect reliable jargon-free advice from us.

At Buzzacott, we’re trusted for the experience we have, the specialisms we understand, the relationships we build and the values we live by.

Although Buzzacott is a modern firm, we‘re incredibly proud of our rich history and the success that we have achieved over 100 years of business.

Why do you support the work of The Entrepreneurs Network?

The UK’s economic growth hinges on robust policies that champion R&D and innovation. However, the policy conversation often centres around large corporations, overlooking the pivotal role of innovative SMEs. Entrepreneurs are the trailblazers, driving and deploying groundbreaking innovations. These agile and driven business leaders not only leverage technology but also pioneer new ways of working that promise to revolutionise the UK economy.

For the UK to truly thrive, it must bolster the R&D and innovation efforts of ambitious entrepreneurs and SMEs. We are committed to collaborating with The Entrepreneurs Network to ensure that SME innovation remains a focal point in Westminster’s discussions.

What research should more people read?

I encourage everyone to read The Start-up Manifesto, which is brimming with exciting ideas to transform the UK economy. While we agree with the Manifesto’s recommendation that the R&D tax credits system needs reform, we also recognise a critical challenge: the funding gap between the startup phase and the point where a company becomes established.

I also recommend reading the latest parliamentary committee reports, such as the Lords’ Science and Technology Committee’s Financing and Scaling UK Science and Technology. These reports highlight parliamentary concerns and identify gaps in the current discussions. We would then encourage entrepreneurs to engage with calls for evidence or consultations to ensure their voices are heard and to help shape policies that support innovation and growth.

Why is the UK an attractive place to grow a business?

Having worked in both industrial and academic research, and collaborated with partners worldwide, it's clear that the UK offers something truly special. Our universities and post-16 training programs foster a mindset where creativity and innovative thinking are integral to becoming a technical specialist. This cultivates a world-class talent pool. Coupled with a more established funding environment than much of the EU, the UK is uniquely positioned to nurture innovative companies.