Individuals under 30 years of age are most eager to start their own business. Retail trade, IT and the travel industry are the three most popular areas.

At present, 18 percent of Swedes are self employed in which 65 percent are men. The most common reason for taking a step back is the uncertainty of income. The fear of failure is higher in the younger generation.

In North America, 26 percent of the respondents are freelancers, consultants or self-employed. The entire 41 percent of those who do not work in this area are somewhat interested in doing so, while 19 percent are very interested. The figure is higher here than in Asia and Europe. The main obstacles are to not achieve a reasonable income, sufficient support and that they are afraid of the costs for healthcare. 23 percent plan to start their own businesses.

In Asia, 19 percent of respondents operate as freelancers, consultants or self-employed. 42 percent of those not working in this area are somewhat interested in doing so while 10 percent are very interested. Here, the workers are also worried about the income and support but there is also a fear of failure. 43 percent believe that they are educated enough and have the right skills to run their own business. 27 percent plan to start their own business, which is the highest figure in the world.

In Europe, 17 percent of respondents operate as freelancers, consultants or self-employed. Of those who do not, 33 percent are somewhat interested in doing so, while 9 percent are very interested. As in Asia, there are concerns for income and support as well as failure. 44 percent believe that they have the required resources and knowledge. 23 percent plan to start their own business.


                                                                                     Cecilia Helland