Start, scale and stay – is the Government really backing entrepreneurs?

In a recent FT Adviser article, Hayden Bailey considers whether the Government’s ambition to help businesses start, scale and stay in the UK is being effectively supported by current policy. While the importance of entrepreneurship to economic growth remains a consistent theme in Government messaging, the article considers whether recent measures provide the clarity and certainty founders require.

The article reflects on the Government’s emphasis on encouraging business creation and investment, particularly through the tax system, as part of its wider efforts to ensure the UK remains competitive for both domestic and international entrepreneurs.

However, Hayden highlights ongoing concerns around, especially in relation to taxation. He suggests that entrepreneurs need long-term clarity and stability in order to make confident decisions about starting and growing businesses in the UK and that a lack of predictability can undermine the effectiveness of short-term incentives.

He also considers the wider economic implications, noting that uncertainty may influence where businesses choose to scale, with potential consequences for the UK’s ability to retain talent, innovation and long-term economic value.

Hayden says, "The UK has significant potential to become a leading generator for start-ups. We now need to see a tax regime that maximises efficiency for entrepreneurs, whilst encouraging reinvestment into British business."

The full article was first published in FT Adviser in January 2026.