Gone are the days when success meant climbing the corporate ladder. Today, 18- to 24-year-olds across the UK aren’t just thinking about business. Rather Gen Z are Business. A fresh poll from Small Business Saturday UK, backed by American Express, reveals that over 70% of young Brits want to be their own boss and for nearly one in three, it’s a burning ambition
The Startup Generation: Not Just Talk
This isn’t idle daydreaming. Across the board, Gen Z is putting in work:
- 73% of 16-24-year-olds in another survey said they’d consider starting their own business driven by money, freedom, and fulfilment
- They’re pushing boundaries beyond “just business.” A whopping 82% define their ventures as both purpose-driven and profitable.
- While older generations scramble, Gen Z are thriving: they’re rising faster in revenues, thanks to digital know-how and business apps—no showroom required
Why This Generation Leads the Pack: Gen Z are Business
- Digital by Design
Some run companies from their phones. Seriously. Gen Z’s world is smartphones, scrolls, and side-hustles. They can promote, sell, and build community all from a TikTok clip or Insta story - Purpose Over Paycheque
Making money is important, but making a difference? That’s the real flex. From sustainable fashion to fair-trade skincare Gen Z are in business to do good - Flexibility Isn’t Optional
The 9-5 grind? Gen Z says nah. A flexible schedule, control over your hours, and work that fits around life not the other way round—is now non-negotiable. - Real, Raw, and Public
They don’t hide failures. Many Gen Z entrepreneurs “build in public”sharing every win and setback online. Authentic, messy, and real—and incredibly inspiring
