The report, which surveys 3,000 adults in the UK, highlights a renewed entrepreneurial spirit, with over half (52%) of respondents considering launching a business in the next year.

With self-employment numbers in decline since 2020 (down from 5 million in 2020 to 4.3 million in 2024), this report signals a potential turning point suggesting UK consumers are ready to redefine entrepreneurship – embracing side hustles, leveraging digital tools, and seeking financial independence to navigate today’s economic challenges.

Key findings include:

• (Side) Hustle and Bustle: 52% of respondents are looking to start a business, and 40% say it will be a side-hustle alongside regular employment
• Pounds and Purpose: 38% of respondents say they’ll turn to business ownership or side-hustles to increase their take-home pay in 2025, above getting a promotion at work or buying a home
• Eggs in Multiple Baskets: for nearly seven in ten respondents (68%), the stability of a regular income is too good to pass up. Other perks, like workplace benefits and the security of a retirement plan, rank high on the list. Running a business as a side-hustle gives freedom and stability to pursue business dreams without huge financial risk
• Small Stakes, Big Rewards: average startup costs begin at just £3,000, with one in 10 businesses starting with zero investment
• Confidence and Cash Hurdles: the data suggests these numbers may be even higher if not for a few roadblocks holding back hopeful entrepreneurs. More than four in ten respondents (43%) say they would consider starting a business if they had more money, and 40% say they would if they had more confidence in their business ideas
• Click, Buy, Grow: 44% of current business owners aim to expand their e-commerce efforts, while 25% plan to adopt AI-powered tools in 2025
• Resolutions that stick: the majority (62%) also say they’re most likely to keep New Year’s resolutions that are financial in nature, like keeping a budget or saving for the future, and less likely to keep resolutions like giving up fast food or going to the gym

Rob Burlison, Director of International Corporate Affairs at Intuit QuickBooks comments: “The findings highlight an exciting shift in the UK entrepreneurial landscape, with a renewed focus on self-employment and side hustles. Starting a business doesn’t have to be complicated or costly, people just need the confidence. Our aim is to support entrepreneurs on their journey of turning their dreams into reality in 2025.”

For more information about the report please click here.