After a summer holiday, or six weeks of entertaining children during the school break, many people return to September with a familiar feeling: a desire for change.
Perhaps you’ve spent time reflecting on what you’d really like to do. Maybe you’ve got a skill, hobby, or idea that friends keep telling you could become a business? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone and Berkshire may be one of the best places in the UK to take that first step.
Berkshire has a thriving entrepreneurial community. According to Companies House and ONS data reported by Wokingham.Today, there were more than 80,000 registered companies in Berkshire during 2024, with over 10,000 new businesses launched in a single year. Alongside these registered companies are thousands of sole traders, freelancers and self-employed professionals, meaning the true number of small and micro businesses is even higher.
So why do people choose to start their own business?
For many, it’s about flexibility. Parents often want work that fits around family life rather than the other way around. Others are seeking greater control over their careers, the opportunity to pursue a passion, or the chance to build something of their own. Some are motivated by the prospect of increasing their income, while others simply want the freedom to decide who they work with, where they work, and how they spend their time.
The summer holidays can be a particular catalyst for these reflections. Time away from the day-to-day routine often creates space to think about what’s working, what isn’t, and what changes we’d like to make for ourselves and our families.
This area offers a unique advantage for aspiring business owners. With excellent transport links, proximity to London, a flourishing technology sector, creative industries and a strong network of local business groups, Berkshire provides fertile ground for new ventures. Whether you’re based in Reading, Bracknell, Wokingham, Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead or West Berkshire, there are opportunities to connect, collaborate and grow.
Of course, having a great idea is only the beginning.
Many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle to move from inspiration to action. Questions around finance, marketing, legal requirements, pricing and finding customers can quickly turn excitement into overwhelm. The good news is that there is support for people ready to explore self-employment.
One option is the Skills Bootcamp in Entrepreneurship, delivered by The Skills and Business Hub’s Growth Academy. This fully funded 10-week programme provides 60 hours of practical support through online workshops, one-to-one mentoring and peer learning. Participants develop their business idea, understand their market, learn the essentials of finance and compliance, and leave with a practical business plan and the confidence to launch.
For those at an earlier stage, the Berkshire Growth Hub Launch Programme provides valuable guidance for pre-start and early-stage businesses. Over 2 live webinars, it offers expert advice, workshops and practical resources designed to help entrepreneurs validate their ideas and build strong foundations for growth.
There is also a wealth of national support available through GOV.UK’s business support website, which provides straightforward information on registering a business, tax responsibilities, funding opportunities, employment regulations and other essentials for new business owners.
So, if you’ve spent the summer dreaming about doing something different, perhaps this autumn is the time to act. Berkshire already has the business community, connections and support network to help you succeed. All that’s missing is your idea and the decision to take that first step.
The journey from idea to income can feel daunting, but thousands of Berkshire entrepreneurs have already shown that it’s possible. Why not make this the autumn you join them?
