2.06 million young entrepreneurs in the EU in 2025
Most of these 2 million entrepreneurs operate in the digital services sector, technology (ICT), and the so-called green economy, which aligns with the EU's priorities.
The data show the growing enthusiasm of the young generation (usually defined in Eurostat statistics as people aged 15–29) for running their own business. Here are the key aspects of this trend:
Growth in entrepreneurship: This result indicates that more and more young Europeans are choosing self-employment or starting startups instead of traditional full-time employment.
Modern industries: Most of these 2 million entrepreneurs operate in digital services, technology (ICT), and the so-called green economy, which aligns with EU priorities.
Poland among the leaders: Poland has been ranking high in youth entrepreneurship rankings for years. In 2025, Polish people in their 20s and 30s make up a significant share of this EU group, driven by the ease of starting sole proprietorships (JDG).
EU support: Such a high number is also the result of programs such as Youth Guarantee and innovation funds, which make it easier for young businesses to get started.
This growth is crucial for the future of the EU, because these 2 million young companies are set to become the foundation of innovation in the face of upcoming demographic changes.
Youth employment in the EU: 65.6%
In 2025, the employment rate of people aged 20–29 in the European Union was 65.6%. This represents a significant increase of 6.3 percentage points compared with 2015 data.
In Poland, the employment rate among young people was 69.1%
Source: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/edn-20260421-1
