However, consumer spending has slowed slightly and consumer goods price inflaiton has risen further.
Graham Toy, chief executive of National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers, said:
"Hidden amongst the gloomy headlines of subdued consumer spending and recruitment difficulties, the Bank's latest business conditions hold a number of silver linings for small businesses.
"Credit availability continues to improve for SMEs and financing remains readily available. This is vital for small businesses as they look to hold a steady course through these uncertain times.The fall in sterling also continues to provide a fertile environment for exporters - which is good news for the more than six in ten small companies that trade internationally.
"All-in-all, this is remarkably heartening data for a sector that has been dogged by downbeat forecasts."
