New research launched by Young Enterprise for Global Entrepreneurship Week

Foot Anstey's charity partner, Young Enterprise, has undertaken new research that takes a deep dive into the ambitions of Gen Z (16–24-year-olds). The research, funded as part of its three-year strategic partnership with the firm, will help Young Enterprise better understand the impact of entrepreneurship in driving social mobility and the potential barriers faced by young people. 

The partnership is part of the firm's commitment to creating measurable social impact. As Bola Gibson, our Executive Director for Responsible Business explains: “Entrepreneurial thinking is one of the most valuable workplace skills today. Young people who demonstrate initiative, creativity and problem-solving help businesses stay agile and competitive."

The results from initial polling have been released ahead of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025. With a theme of “Together We Build”, the week reflects the power of collective support in creating opportunities for the next generation.

The research was conducted for Young Enterprise by Sapio Research, surveying 2,150 UK adults aged 16+. This included a sub-sample of 1,000 young people aged 16-24.

What does the research say?

The research reveals a generation that is highly entrepreneurial but often held back by a lack of access to support, networks and financial confidence. Young Enterprise’s findings show that entrepreneurship is alive and well among young people:

• 81% of young people have already taken part in entrepreneurial activity.
• Only 4% say they have no interest at all in being entrepreneurial.
• 71% believe that entrepreneurs are vital to the UK’s economic future.
• 76% feel that being enterprising boosts a young person’s social mobility.

From selling products online to running side hustles, these young people are already demonstrating real initiative - not just ambition.

However, the research highlights that enthusiasm alone isn’t enough. Young people cite major barriers including:

• Lack of money or savings (46%)
• Fear of failure (40%)
• Fear of financial insecurity (34%)
• Limited access to networks or mentors (15%)

Foot Anstey hopes to address some of the barriers highlighted in this research through their partnership with Young Enterprise - particularly access to networks, role models and enterprise experience.

Sarah Porretta, CEO of Young Enterprise commented: “Confidence and opportunity go hand in hand; when young people are given space to take risks, learn from failure, experience enterprise first-hand, and are supported with an accessible network, they are better able to progress. We must invest in a system that ensures equitable support for young entrepreneurs, whatever their starting point, to ensure that entrepreneurship can be a key driver for social mobility.”

What next?

The research is the first stage in a listening and consultation process by Young Enterprise which will be used as the basis for a report in 2026. If you would like to find out more about the research, please contact the Young Enterprise Insights team, or get in touch with [email protected].