Unlocking the potential of ethnic minority and migrant entrepreneurs

Goal: To reflect on the barriers faced by ethnic minority and migrant entrepreneurs, and explore practical ways to improve business support.

Time required: 10-15 minutes

Context

Ethnic minority and migrant entrepreneurs contribute around £25 billion to the UK's economy each year—comparable to the output of cities like Manchester or Birmingham.

However, many face barriers to accessing finance, quality business support, and wider markets, which limits their ability to sustain or grow their businesses. It's estimated that, with the right support, these entrepreneurs' contribution could rise to £100 billion a year.

A key challenge is that many entrepreneurs are disconnect from mainstream business support and do not see their needs reflected in the support services. Minority entrepreneurs have historically been distrustful of public institutions.

Activity

Reflect on the following two questions and write down your answers. Think about representation, communication, relevance and past experience.

1. In your own words, why do you think some minority and migrant entrepreneurs are hesitant to use mainstream business support services?

2. What is one way your organisation could help these entrepreneurs feel heard and help shape the design of local business support services?

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