A recent study from the University of Cyprus’s Entrepreneurship Center sheds light on Cypriots’ views towards starting businesses. While 39.8% see favorable opportunities, 60.5% believe in their capabilities, yet 53.3% are deterred by the fear of failure.

The Power and Presence of Small Enterprises

Cyprus plays host to approximately 125,000 businesses, significantly contributing to a workforce of about 500,000. The dynamics of these enterprises highlight their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic landscape.

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Progress in the Entrepreneurial Sphere

This eighth participation in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) reveals a positive trend with an increase in new business ownership, now at 4.7%. Additionally, there’s notable optimism among younger individuals aged 18-34, who lead with a 14.4% engagement in startups.

Gender and Age Dynamics

Despite improvements, gender disparity remains, with 14.5% of men versus 4.9% of women initiating entrepreneurial activities. Furthermore, Cyprus ranks sixth in Europe for established business ownership, attesting to its mature business ecosystem.

Reflective of global ambitions, the study suggests financial education and policy adjustments for fostering entrepreneurship. Actions like mentoring programs and governmental incentives could drive Cyprus’s business potential forward.