There is a lot to celebrate about UK entrepreneurs, but it appears the public don't know it.
Research independently conducted on behalf of social media platform Australian start-up Gather, has found that nearly half (49 per cent) of people would like to see the UK government being more supportive of entrepreneurs and start-ups.
36 per cent of those surveyed believe that there are bound to be many great ideas for products or services in the hands of start-up entrepreneurs.
In addition, the popularity of business shows such as Dragon’s Den and The Apprentice have helped raise the subject of start-ups to the general public, with 34 per cent saying they have been impressed with the calibre of innovation demonstrated by budding entrepreneurs on the shows. In fact, a quarter of those surveyed believe it is likely that an existing start-up has an idea that could rival an established brand’s product or service.
David Price, CEO of Gather Online comments: “Public Support for start-ups is flourishing. The research I have seen indicates that only 8 per cent of businesses would consider crowdfunding as a form of investment."
"With the growing faith in the start-up community, respondents would like to see the government give more support to entrepreneurs and start-ups, 36 per cent think it is particularly important since the Brexit Referendum. The vast majority of those surveyed (92 per cent) did not know that London is ranked as Europe’s number one start-up capital."
But then that is why it is so important to celebrate entrepreneurs success and educate the public about this great British success story. This is why programmes such as the The NatWest Great British Entrepreneur Awards are so important. The NatWestGreat British Entrepreneur Awards are currently open for applications, and entrants can apply here: www.greatbritishentrepreneurawards.com.
As for Gather, they are in the process of a crowdfunding campaign in the UK , currently at 184 per cent of their initial target. Mr Price said: "The research I have seen indicates that only eight per cent of businesses would consider crowdfunding as a form of investment, but we are proof that if you have the right product this can be a great way to seek growth and involve a very interested public.”
