An increase in women and older founders have helped to drive the boom in new firms across the countryside, according to GoDaddy’s Venture Forward research initiative.
The latest data from more than 2.3 million British microbusinesses – firms with fewer than 10 employees – has revealed that that 25.9% of Britain’s microbusinesses are now based rurally, up from 24.1% a year ago. Experts at GoDaddy said improvements in technology have allowed for more businesses to be launched in more remote areas of the country.In 2022, 33.1% of rural entrepreneurs were female, which has jumped to 43.6% this year. This compares with 35% of urban microbusinesses being run by female founders.Around a quarter of urban microbusiness owners are over 50, which jumps to 39% for those running rural businesses.
“While in the past, commerce and enterprise was associated with major urban hubs, advancements in technology and online tools mean businesses can be easily started from anywhere.