At Hatch Enterprise, research helps us understand and address the barriers facing underrepresented entrepreneurs across the UK. This page brings together the reports we’ve produced and contributed to, sharing evidence and insights that inform our work and drive meaningful change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Through original research and collaborative projects, we examine the real challenges founders face—from access to funding and networks to discrimination and unequal opportunities. These reports combine data, lived experiences, and expert analysis to build a clearer picture of who gets to start a business in modern Britain and what needs to change.
Whether you’re a policymaker, business, entrepreneur, or simply interested in building a fairer economy, these reports provide valuable evidence to support action and advocacy.
This report examines perceptions of entrepreneurship across the UK, revealing how barriers of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexuality, and geography shape who feels welcome in the entrepreneurial “club.” Key findings include:
The research provides critical evidence of the systemic barriers that prevent talented individuals from realising their entrepreneurial potential and offers recommendations for building a more inclusive ecosystem.
Hatch Enterprise contributed to this landmark review examining the experiences and needs of Disabled entrepreneurs across the UK. The report makes a compelling economic case: with Disabled entrepreneurs making up a quarter of all business owners, removing barriers doesn’t just support a marginalised community—it unlocks growth opportunities for the entire UK economy.
Hatch Enterprise contributed to this report exploring how young entrepreneurs are reshaping business in the UK. The research reveals that founders under 35 are more than twice as likely to prioritise solving social or environmental problems, yet face stark inequalities—they’re three times more likely to be privately educated and often rely on personal connections for funding. The report calls for new funding sources, support for career changers, and expanded mentoring opportunities.
We partner with organisations who share our commitment to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs. From corporate partnerships to skilled volunteering, there are many ways to get involved and make a real difference to founders across the UK.