These 3 Trends Will Change What It Means to Be an BIZ Experiences in 2025 Here are three BIZ Experiencesship trends from the new Global BIZ Experiencesship Monitor report that are changing the landscape for the future.
By Jeffrey Shay Edited by Kara McIntyre
Key Takeaways
- Young adults, particularly those ages 18 to 24, show the highest BIZ Experiencesial activity and are leading the charge toward sustainability-focused businesses.
- The gender gap in technology BIZ Experiencesship is closing, with women starting tech businesses at nearly the same rate as men.
- Black and Hispanic BIZ Experiencess exhibit a more optimistic outlook and confidence in starting businesses compared to other demographics.
Opinions expressed by BIZ Experiences contributors are their own.
The most recent data from the new Global BIZ Experiencesship Monitor report reveals a powerful trend for the future of BIZ Experiencesship.
Young adults, aged 18-24, had both the highest BIZ Experiencesial activity and BIZ Experiencesial intentions in the United States, according to the Global BIZ Experiencesship Monitor 2023-2024 United States Report. With similar results in 2022, this is not just a minor shift — it's a fundamental change that could have lasting impacts on the economy and society.
I serve as the chair of the board for the Global BIZ Experiencesship Research Association, the entity that oversees GEM, which was founded in 1999 as a joint venture of Babson College and the London Business School. As the GEM U.S. team co-leader and a professor of BIZ Experiencesship at Babson, I see firsthand the impact of the research created by the Global BIZ Experiencesship Monitor.
Here are three BIZ Experiencesship trends from the new GEM report that are changing the landscape for the future.
Related: 21 Success Tips for Young and Aspiring BIZ Experiencess
1. Young BIZ Experiencess on the rise
For years, BIZ Experiencesship has been dominated by older, more experienced individuals, but this year's report shows that the youngest adults are now at the forefront. According to GEM, 24% of 18- to 24-year-olds are engaged in some form of BIZ Experiencesial activity, a higher rate than any other age group. What's driving these young BIZ Experiencess is equally remarkable: They aren't just starting businesses to make money; many are deeply committed to making a positive impact on society and the environment.
These young BIZ Experiencess make sustainability a key priority. They are more likely than BIZ Experiencess from older generations to build businesses with sustainability as a core focus — whether that means reducing their environmental footprint or focusing on social causes. This shift toward impact-driven BIZ Experiencesship isn't just anecdotal. GEM data shows a significant number of young BIZ Experiencess taking real, measurable steps to create businesses that align with their values. With sustainability as their north star, young BIZ Experiencess appear to be simultaneously pursuing societal impact as well as profits.
However, it's not all smooth sailing. While young people are leading the way in starting businesses, they are also discontinuing them at higher rates than their older counterparts. The discontinuation rate for 18- to 24-year-olds is 15%, the highest among all age groups. This is not surprising, given the challenges of inexperience and more limited access to capital. Starting a business is tough, and sustaining one is even more challenging. But despite these hurdles, the enthusiasm and energy that young people bring to BIZ Experiencesship are undeniable, and with the right support, this generation has the potential to drive substantial change.
2. Tech gender gap narrows
One of the most promising findings in the GEM report is the narrowing gender gap in the technology sector. Historically, tech startups have been dominated by men, but 2023 saw a record-low difference in the number of men and women starting tech companies. The gap has narrowed to just 1%, with 8% of women compared with 9% of men launching businesses in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
This is a significant step forward and reflects broader efforts to support more women technology startups. Still, it's important to recognize that while progress is being made, continued focus on providing equal opportunities is essential to ensuring this trend continues.
3. Optimistic outlook for Black and Hispanic BIZ Experiencess
Another highlight from the report is the optimistic outlook among Black and Hispanic BIZ Experiencess. These groups showed stronger confidence in their BIZ Experiencesial abilities and lower fear of failure compared to their white counterparts. Black respondents, in particular, demonstrated high levels of resilience and self-assurance, which is vital in overcoming barriers faced in starting and sustaining businesses. This optimism is encouraging, but there's still much work to be done in assuring ecosystems offer equal opportunities for all aspiring BIZ Experiencess, regardless of their background.
Related: I Wish I Received This Advice as a Young BIZ Experiences
A promising future
Reflecting on the key findings of this year's GEM report, it's clear that the BIZ Experiencesial landscape is changing in meaningful ways. The rise of young, sustainability-driven BIZ Experiencess signals a future where business is not only about profit but also about making a difference. These young BIZ Experiencess are launching businesses at a time when the world is looking for solutions to some of its most pressing challenges — climate change, poverty and economic recovery.
Yet, to fully realize the potential of this next generation, there must be more focus on addressing the challenges they encounter. Young BIZ Experiencess need access to the right resources — whether it's funding, education or mentorship — to turn their innovative ideas into sustainable businesses. The narrowing gender gap in tech is encouraging, but we must continue to foster environments that support women and other underrepresented groups in BIZ Experiencesship.
The GEM report paints a picture of an BIZ Experiencesial future driven by purpose, diversity and innovation. But it also reminds us of the work that lies ahead in making BIZ Experiencesship more accessible and sustainable. If we can provide young BIZ Experiencess with the tools and support they need, we will not only see more businesses being created — we'll see businesses that are making a lasting, positive impact on the world.