WARRINGTON, UK. October 13th, 2026: People aged 25 to 34 are now the largest group seeking accountancy support, with nearly one in two prospective clients under the age of 35, according to new data highlighting the changing face of entrepreneurship in the UK.
Research analysing 9.2 million UK director appointments by company formation agent 1st Formations shows that the average age of a UK founder has remained around 43 for more than 25 years.
However, figures from UK accountancy provider Caroola Accountancy indicate that people are increasingly exploring business ownership earlier in life, with those aged 25 to 34 representing the largest proportion of people looking for accountancy services.
Caroola analysed the ages of visitors to its website between July and October 2026. Those aged 25 to 34 accounted for 27% of visitors, followed by the 35 to 44 age group at 20% and those aged 18 to 24 at 19%. Overall, 46% were under 35, while 66% were younger than 45.
The 1st Formations research found that the average age of company founders remained between 41 and 44 each year from 2000 onwards. The figure returned to 43 in both 2024 and 2025, marking the first significant decline in more than a decade. The research is based on director appointments and therefore reflects individuals establishing limited companies.
Other studies also highlight the appetite for entrepreneurship among younger generations. Research published in 2025 by business finance provider Capital on Tap found that 82% of UK adults aged 18 to 24 were considering starting their own business. Its analysis of Companies House data also identified Manchester as the UK city with the highest concentration of founders aged 24 and under.
Caroola believes the findings reflect a growing number of people setting up businesses, freelance operations and side projects earlier in their working lives. They also suggest that more aspiring entrepreneurs are turning to professional advisers from the outset.
Akosua Catherine Akobeng, Head of Accountancy Growth at Caroola Accountancy, said: “What we’re seeing today is a new generation of entrepreneurs entering the market much earlier in their careers. Young professionals are increasingly building side hustles, freelance businesses and limited companies alongside traditional employment, and many are seeking professional accountancy support from day one. For many first-time business owners, getting an accountant is one of the first steps they take after deciding to go self-employed.
“The growth we’re seeing among younger demographics reflects a broader shift in entrepreneurship. Starting and running a business is more accessible than ever before, and younger founders are looking for digital-first services that help them stay compliant, save time and focus on growing their business.”
Caroola anticipates that this shift will influence the services entrepreneurs expect from professional firms. Fast access to advice, adaptable support and technology that makes complex tasks easier are likely to become increasingly important, alongside traditional annual compliance services.
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