Nearly Half of UK Adults Are Eyeing Their Own Startup in 2025
According to the latest Start‑Up Ambition Report from Enterprise Nation, a whopping 47% of adults in Britain are mulling over launching a business or a side hustle next year—up a full 12 points from the previous year. Thank you, inflation, for making extra cash sound so appealing!
What’s Motive?
- Extra Cash – 33% say they’d like a cushion against rising living costs.
- Turn Hobbies into Profits – Another 33% want to monetize a skill or pastime.
Generational Pulse
Gen Z and Millennials are the real drivers:
- 18‑30: 62% are already looking forward to a venture.
- 31‑40: 51% plan to launch within the year.
- 25% aren’t into it yet but plan to one day.
Why It’s Gaining Momentum
Emma Jones, CBE, founder of Enterprise Nation, notes:
“We’re witnessing a cultural shift—entrepreneurship is now seen as a mainstream career path. Wage stagnation and easy tech access make starting up a sensible, fun choice.”
Real‑World Example: TRVLR’s Rise
Daniella Conway, 29, has been juggling a full‑time investment role while building a group‑travel platform that lets friends vote on itineraries, destinations, and bookings—all in one place. Because she couldn’t find a tool that met her needs, she crafted the solution herself.
- Referred to the Enterprise Nation Start‑Up Show in Jan 2024 as the launchpad.
- Snagged angel funding, a mentor, and an accelerator acceptance.
- Invested in AI integration and a part‑time social media contractor.
- Already boasts a waitlist of 1,000 eager travellers.
“It’s been chaotic but exhilarating,” she says—a testament to the entrepreneurial hustle.
Industry Insights
- Food & Drink: 14% of new ventures.
- Arts & Crafts: 15%.
- Beauty: top pick for 18‑24-year-olds at 16%.
Financial Expectations
- Full‑time first‑year earnings: £34,000 average.
- Second‑year women’s earning goal: £28,658 vs £37,865 for men.
- Side‑hustle first‑year: £5,765, slightly higher than 2024.
Support & Inspiration
Multiple resources help budding entrepreneurs:
- Constant Contact, Monzo, GS1 UK, Tik‑Tok Shop, and Vodafone Business sponsor the annual Start‑Up Show in London.
- Highlights include BBC presenter Emma Barnett and her husband Jeremy Weil, who motivate thousands to click the “Start” button.
The event aligns with the wider ecosystem of mentorship, funding, and community, ensuring that whether you’re flaky, talented, or just hungry for a side gig, you’re not alone.
