Call For Programmes To Celebrate Diversity Of British SMEs

Entrepreneurs want more to be done to encourage people to develop start-up businesses in the UK and ensure that the image of such businesses portrayed on shows including The Apprentice is improved upon, according to new research.

The study by the Centre For Entrepreneurs, a new organisation launched by the Legatum Institute and former Channel 4 chairman Luke Johnson, found that while 76 per cent of entrepreneurs feel such programmes have raised awareness of starting a small business, the portrayal of those involved is potentially harmful.

It revealed that 61 per cent specifically feel the image of aspiring entrepreneurs which is put forward by The Apprentice could potentially put people off the idea of starting their own company.

The Centre For Entrepreneurs is now urging broadcasters to provide more realistic portrayals of entrepreneurs and the start-up business, as well as to celebrate the diverse talents of such companies across the UK.

Luke Johnson added: “The vast majority of entrepreneurs are not egotistic or mad, they simply want to work for themselves and make a difference – thus generating enormous benefits for the UK in terms of job creation and innovation.”

Expert Opinion

The ongoing economic recovery means there are a huge number of opportunities now emerging for ambitious SMEs and entrepreneurs which are looking to expand and develop their businesses further. <br/> <br/>“SMEs which choose to take these steps forward have a key role to play in boosting that economic recovery even further, through investment and the creation of new jobs to name just two issues. <br/> <br/>“Programmes such as The Apprentice are of course based around entertainment, but the Centre For Entrepreneurs’ suggestion for more programming to properly reflect the important area of start-up business is a good one. <br/> <br/>“Many people are simply unaware of where to start when it comes to setting up a firm and all of the regulatory issues they also need to consider, and often do not know where to turn to first. <br/> <br/>“More programmes covering off this topic could play a key role in ensuring that those taking their first steps to business are fully prepared and ready for what lies ahead.” Fergal Dowling - Partner