# Gen Z as founders, how they are acting?

The face of entrepreneurship is getting younger. Gen Z — those born between 1997 and 2012 — are stepping into the startup game with bold ideas, a native fluency in technology, and a defiant attitude toward outdated systems. Unlike previous generations who followed the traditional playbook of college degrees, corporate ladders, and slow career growth, Gen Z is rewriting the rules in real-time. They’re not waiting for permission or funding to build businesses — they’re doing it in their bedrooms, on Discord servers, and through social platforms. But what’s really behind this shift? Why are Gen Zers turning to entrepreneurship in such large numbers — and how are they reshaping what it means to be a founder?

Let’s break it down!

## A generation raised on the internet

To understand Gen Z’s approach to entrepreneurship, you need to understand the environment they grew up in

This generation didn’t witness the birth of the internet — they were born into it. By the time many Gen Zers hit their teens, smartphones and social media were already deeply integrated into everyday life. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok didn’t just entertain them — they educated and inspired them. Gen Z had access to tutorials, startup journeys, side hustle breakdowns, and business failure post-mortems all at their fingertips

They saw creators like Emma Chamberlain go from YouTube vlogger to fashion icon and business owner. They watched Ben Francis build Gymshark into a billion-dollar brand before turning 30. They followed startups like Glossier and Canva — led by young founders disrupting legacy industries. And the message was clear: you don’t have to wait until you're older or have an MBA to start something meaningful.

![Image by cake.com](img/снимок-экрана-2025-04-10-143007.png "Image by cake.com")

Image by [cake.com](https://cake.com/empowered-team/gen-z-workforce-statistics/)

## Why is Gen Z choosing entrepreneurship?

There are several key reasons why Gen Z is increasingly choosing to launch their ventures instead of pursuing traditional 9-to-5 careers

### 1. Economic uncertainty

Gen Z came of age during — and after — the Great Recession. They saw their Millennial siblings struggle with debt and underemployment. Then the pandemic hit during their formative years. These repeated economic shocks made it clear that job security no longer exists. A 2023 report by Deloitte found that 46% of Gen Zers say they live paycheck to paycheck and 75% believe they will need side hustles to make ends meet.

Rather than relying on traditional employment, many are choosing to create their own sources of income. It’s not just about passion — it’s a practical response to a broken economic system

### 2. Access to free tools and platforms

The barrier to entry for starting a business has never been lower. Gen Z doesn’t need a lot of capital or connections to build a company. They can launch a product on Shopify in a weekend, design their brand using Canva, promote it on TikTok for free, and accept payments through Stripe or Venmo. This is a generation of digital builders

A report by Morning Consult found that 50% of Gen Z adults have considered starting a business — and many already have. The rise of "micro-entrepreneurship" — where people run one-person brands from their phones — is driven by these tools

### 3. Values-driven innovation

Gen Z isn’t just building businesses to make money — they want to make a difference. According to a 2022 IBM survey, 75% of Gen Z respondents said it’s important that a brand reflects their values. That translates into how they build their own companies. They prioritize sustainability, mental health, inclusivity, and transparency

Ziad Ahmed, founder of JUV Consulting — a Gen Z-led marketing agency that advises Fortune 500 companies on how to better connect with youth. He launched the company as a teenager because he felt brands were constantly talking down to his generation. Now, JUV has worked with brands like Nike and Unilever, helping them reshape their messaging through authentic youth voices

## Notable Gen Z founders making waves

The headlines are catching up — Gen Z entrepreneurs are already building impressive businesses that defy expectations

* Mikaila Ulmer, founder of Me & the Bees Lemonade, started her company at just four years old and turned it into a national brand stocked in Whole Foods. Now in her early 20s, she’s a sought-after speaker and investor in youth entrepreneurship
* Alana Andrews, founder of So Positive Initiative and author of “Creating Confidence”, used her own struggles with confidence and entrepreneurship to launch a program that empowers other Gen Z kids to lead with impact
* Josh Browder, born in 1997, created DoNotPay, the “world’s first robot lawyer” to help people fight parking tickets and navigate legal bureaucracy without hiring expensive attorneys. He was just 19 when he launched the service
* Ben Pasternak, who dropped out of school at 15, built several apps and eventually founded SIMULATE, the plant-based food tech startup behind NUGGS, a viral chicken nugget alternative
* Avery Akkineni, president of Vayner3, entered the Web3 space early and led global campaigns for brands exploring NFTs and blockchain experiences — all before turning 30

## Stats that show the shift

The trend isn’t just anecdotal — the data backs it up

* According to a 2022 GoDaddy report, one in five Gen Zers say they already run their own business
* A Shopify study found that 62% of Gen Z entrepreneurs started their business as a side hustle, and 44% want to make it their full-time job
* In a survey by SCORE, 38% of Gen Z respondents said they believe entrepreneurship offers the best career path, compared to 25% of Millennials
* Y Combinator, the legendary startup accelerator, saw a 38% increase in founders under 25 in its 2022 cohort

## Rewriting the founder playbook

Gen Z doesn’t follow the Silicon Valley model of founders in hoodies pitching VCs in boardrooms. They are building in public, validating ideas on social media, and growing communities before they even register a company. Platforms like TikTok, Reddit, and Discord have become their idea labs — where product-market fit is tested through memes and comment sections

They’re skeptical of traditional hierarchies and prefer flatter, more collaborative structures. Many don’t even identify as “CEOs” — they’re creators, operators, or community leads. They’re less obsessed with raising millions and more focused on building sustainable businesses that reflect who they are

## Challenges they face

It’s not all hype and hustle. Gen Z founders face serious challenges

* Age bias: Investors and customers sometimes don’t take young founders seriously
* Mental health strains: The pressure to hustle, perform, and constantly be “on” can lead to burnout
* Funding gaps: Despite their innovation, Gen Z founders often struggle to access traditional venture capital — particularly if they’re from underrepresented communities

But true to form, they’re building around those obstacles too. They’re raising funds through crowdfunding, building lean businesses, and prioritizing balance and authenticity over growth at all costs

## The future is peer-led

What makes Gen Z founders especially powerful is how peer-driven their success is. They support each other — promoting friends’ businesses on social media, sharing resources in group chats, and building networks of digital collaborators around the world. They believe in community over competition

As they grow older and gain influence, Gen Z entrepreneurs will redefine work culture, reshape industries, and create entirely new sectors. We’re already seeing this in climate tech, creator economy startups, femtech, and mental health platforms — all areas where Gen Z is innovating faster than legacy companies can keep up

## Final thoughts

Gen Z isn’t waiting for permission to lead — they’re already doing it. They’re founding businesses not because it’s trendy, but because it’s necessary. They want more autonomy, more meaning, and more impact — and entrepreneurship gives them that path

They are not here to play by the rules — they are here to rewrite them.

And the rest of the world is starting to pay attention.

What does the next era of entrepreneurship look like?

Gen Z as founders: Why young entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules

## Must attend startup events in spring 2025

Spring 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting season for tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and investors. With a lineup of game-changing conferences across Europe, now is the perfect time to connect with industry leaders, discover groundbreaking startups, and explore the latest innovations. But with so many choices, where should you focus your attention? Here’s your guide to the must-attend events and what makes each one a standout opportunity.

## **[March 25-26: Tech.eu Summit (London, UK)](https://tech.eu/event/2025/summit-london/)**

**Why Attend?** Europe’s tech ecosystem is booming, and Tech.eu Summit is where the biggest names in the industry gather to discuss investment trends, startup scaling, and corporate innovation. This is a must-attend event if you’re looking to gain insight into Europe’s startup landscape and network with investors ready to fund the next big idea.

## **[April 24-25: EU Startups Summit (Valletta, Malta)](https://www.eu-startups.com/summit/)**

**Why Attend?** This event is all about early-stage startups. If you’re a founder looking for funding, this is the place to pitch your idea to top investors. Plus, with Malta’s growing reputation as a hub for digital nomads and fintech startups, the networking opportunities here are unmatched.

## **[May 7-8: Turing Fest (Edinburgh, Scotland)](https://turingfest.com/)**

**Why Attend?** A perfect blend of product development, marketing, and startup growth strategies. Turing Fest is the go-to event for those looking to scale their business while staying ahead in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Plus, Edinburgh’s rich history and tech-friendly atmosphere make it an inspiring backdrop.

## **[May 8-16: ViennaUP (Vienna, Austria)](https://viennaup.com/)**

**Why Attend?** ViennaUP is more than a conference—it’s a festival of innovation spread across multiple venues in the city. From sustainability and social impact to AI and fintech, this event brings together startups, investors, and corporates to shape the future of technology.

## **[May 12-14: PODIM (Maribor, Slovenia)](https://podim.org/podim-story-since-1980/)**

**Why Attend?** If you’re looking for a more intimate setting to connect with top investors and innovators, PODIM is the place to be. Known as one of the best deal-making events in the region, it provides a platform for startups to secure funding and scale internationally.

## **[May 12-16: Iceland Innovation Week (Reykjavík, Iceland)](https://www.innovationweek.is/)**

**Why Attend?** The coolest innovation event in the world—literally. Set against Iceland’s stunning landscapes, this event is all about bold ideas, deep tech, and sustainability. It’s where creative minds meet to push the boundaries of what’s possible in tech.

## **[May 21-23: Latitude59 (Tallinn, Estonia)](https://latitude59.ee/)**

**Why Attend?** Estonia is a digital powerhouse, and Latitude59 reflects that. This event is a hotspot for tech startups, government officials, and investors discussing the future of digital societies, blockchain, and AI-driven solutions.

## **[May 28-29: Infoshare (Gdańsk, Poland)](https://infoshare.pl/)**

**Why Attend?** One of the biggest tech conferences in Central and Eastern Europe, Infoshare is where developers, marketers, and founders come together to discuss software, AI, and business growth strategies. The mix of technical workshops and business networking makes it a must-visit.

## **[May 28-29: Dublin Tech Summit (Dublin, Ireland)](https://dublintechsummit.tech/)**

**Why Attend?** If you want to experience Ireland’s thriving tech scene, this is the place to be. Dublin Tech Summit brings together global tech giants, fast-growing startups, and investors to discuss everything from AI and cybersecurity to fintech and Web3.

### **Finding the perfect event for you!**

No matter your focus, there’s a tech event tailored to your needs this spring. If you’re a startup founder looking to scale, EU Startups Summit and PODIM offer the best opportunities to secure funding and strategic partnerships. Interested in the future of deep tech and innovation? Iceland Innovation Week and ViennaUP should be at the top of your list. For those eager to network with global tech leaders and investors, Dublin Tech Summit and Tech.eu Summit provide the perfect stage.

Startup conferences of spring 2025

Which event will you be attending?

# How to promote your startup

The marketing of a startup can be particularly challenging, especially if resources are tight. With focus and creative planning, however, it is possible to promote a business strategically and save money in the process. In this case, we look at different ways to promote a startup and analyze what each method has to offer and its shortcomings as well some notable examples.

### Understanding your target audience

Planning for any business campaign must include audience identification as the first step. Knowing the ideal customers helps you ensure that any marketing by the startup resonates with their preferences. Take for example, Airbnb focused their marketing on people looking for an affordable but unique place to stay. By doing so, the business was able to position itself quite well in the hospitality industry. This approach also makes sure that resources spent are efficient. Market research is important for defining your audience, but it also tends to be the most tedious part of the plan.

![Image from Pexels](img/group-casually-dressed-business-people-discussing-ideas-office.jpg "Image from Pexels")

Image from Pexels

### Crafting a solid marketing strategy

As soon as you know your audience well, the next step is to create a complete marketing plan. A good example of a startup that used a referral program well in its plan is Dropbox. By providing extra storage space for each referral, they increased their user base tremendously. A well-thought-out strategy provides a roadmap for your marketing and helps set measurable short-term and long-term goals. However, the creation of such a plan may be time-consuming, with lots of market analysis and comprehension of your business objectives.

### Building a professional website

It is very important to have a good online presence in today's digital age. Your website is the face and information source of your startup to your potential customers.\
\
Warby Parker created a visually appealing and easy-to-use website that showcases their eyeglasses and offers a smooth online shopping experience. A good-looking site makes it simple for people to trust the brand, thus making it easy for them to identify with it. It might be challenging to establish the site at first, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. Luckily, there are many easy-to-use platforms that make it easy to create a website.

### Embracing SEO

So that people can find your site, good SEO practice is crucial. Moz, a software company, is well known for being experts in SEO and has used content marketing to get more visibility. Good SEO makes your site more findable in search engines, earning you free visitors and enabling you to reach potential customers without having to pay for advertising. SEO, though, is not something you do and forget; it takes ongoing effort and regular updates to remain relevant in search rankings.

### Harnessing the power of blogging

Content marketing is a great way to get the attention of your audience and keep them interested. Starting a blog enables you to provide valuable information, tips, and updates about your niche. Buffer, for example, which is a social media management tool, has established a strong brand by publishing valuable and interesting blog posts that appeal to their audience.\
\
Creating quality content makes your startup become a thought leader and also boost your SEO. The problem is how to keep up the posting schedule and come up with new ideas that engage your audience.

### Leveraging social media marketing

Social media websites are potent tools for promoting your startup. Beauty brand Glossier has made great use of Instagram to interact with followers, post user-generated content, and create a community around the product. They post interesting content regularly and interact with followers, gaining loyalty. However, to stand out in a saturated social media world, you need to possess creativity and dedication to interact consistently.

### Exploring email marketing

Email marketing is still one of the most powerful ways of internet marketing. By building an email list, you can directly send your audience updates, promotions, and valuable information. OptinMonster, a lead-generation tool, provides free stuff as incentives to increase their subscriber list. The toughest part is writing good emails and not being seen as spam, which will make people unsubscribe.

### Collaborating with influencers

With influencers within your niche can help increase your credibility and profile. Fashion Nova, a clothing company, has achieved success by collaborating with well-known social media influencers to market their products. Influencers can help introduce your brand to their followers, giving you valuable exposure. However, it takes thought to find the right influencers who share your brand values and have an active following.

### Utilizing free startup platforms

Getting involved in startup platforms enables you to network with investors, mentors, and like-minded entrepreneurs. Sites like Y Combinator, AngelList, and WeFunder provide resources and a place to meet others that can help your startup grow. For example, Reddit has several communities (subreddits) where entrepreneurs can ask for advice and share their stories. The problem is getting heard in the midst of many startups trying to get noticed.

### Engaging in community events and networking

Attending local events, workshops, and networking meetups allows you to meet your potential customers and partners and promote your startup as well. Meetup.com is a decent site for finding local events related to your business interest. Having a network in your local community can translate into word-of-mouth marketing, which works superbly well for startups. But, establishing real relationships takes effort and time.

### Conducting webinars and workshops

Hosting webinars or workshops is a great way to showcase your expertise and interact with your audience. HubSpot hosts webinars on marketing, sales, and customer service frequently, offering great information and selling their software in the process. Such live sessions can offer great information while selling your product or service. The key is to market the event well to get participants and make the content interesting and informative. 

![Image from Pexels](img/businesspeople-working-finance-accounting-analyze-financi.jpg "Image from Pexels")

Image from Pexels

### Focusing on customer reviews and testimonials

Encouraging satisfied customers to write reviews can really boost your credibility. Yelp is one very popular site for businesses to showcase customer reviews, and positive reviews are proof that can sway the minds of new customers. But managing negative feedback and always having positive reviews up does take some attention to detail.

### Continuous improvement and adaptation

Netflix is one company that constantly takes the opinions of its consumers and the dynamics of the market into consideration and modifies its content and plans accordingly. By constantly reviewing your marketing plans, you are able to see what is working and what is not working. The challenge is how to plan for the long term while needing to respond to market trends. 

## Final thoughts

It is hard to market a startup when you have a limited budget, but you can accomplish it through creativity and determination. If you understand your audience, create a good plan, and use several marketing tactics, you can grow your brand without breaking the bank. The secret is to continue trying and be open to changing as you explore numerous marketing options. Each of these strategies has been successfully employed by various startups, proving that with the right approach, even limited resources can yield significant results.

Learn more about the best strategies with The Cymes!

The first 100 users: growth strategies for budget-free startups 

# What will 2﻿025 bring for startups?

2025 promises to be quite important for entrepreneurs looking to attract investment in a world increasingly dominated by fast technological changes, changing consumer expectations, and heightened attention towards sustainability. In this article we will break down key strategies and trends that will be of utmost use for founders desiring investment, with real examples that illustrate ways to actually put them into practice.

## Understanding the Investment Landscape

### Change of Investor Mindset

The pandemic in 2020 has completely flipped the investing priorities. Today, investors are drawn to those startups that return them with financial gains, yet have a contribution to positive societal change. Similarly, companies like Allbirds gain huge investments due to their commitment to sustainability and supply chain transparency. This form of ethical investment is also changing the way startups present themselves.

### The Rise of Alternative Funding Sources

While venture capital remains important, other ways of raising money are increasingly in use. Crowdfunding through sites like Kickstarter and equity crowdfunding via SeedInvest have made it possible for more startups to access a wider investor pool. Indeed, BrewDog has raised millions this way in equity crowdfunding, creating legions of shareholder fans in the process. And as the democratization of investment continues, entirely new ways to fund startups are emerging.

## Creating a Solid Brand and Web Presence

### Utilizing Social Media

The modern world demands a strong online presence. A startup should be very interactive on social media platforms. Brands like Glossier have aced this game by leveraging Instagram to build a community of customers who feel like they are part of the brand. Transparency and engaging in relevant content builds trust and strengthens brand loyalty.

### Leverage Content Marketing

Content marketing is an extremely effective way to establish thought leadership and gain trust. HubSpot and other similar startups have been able to establish thought leadership by consistently publishing valuable content that informs prospective customers. It will not only build visibility but also develop a perception that your startup is an authority in its own field.

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-hillaryfox-1595385-1-.jpg "Image from Pexels")

Image from [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/ru-ru/)

## Networking and Building Relationships

### Attend Industry Events

Networking continues to be one of the most important ways to gain investment. Founders must be active at industry conferences and seminars to connect with potential investors. TechCrunch Disrupt has proved to be particularly influential for startups such as Airbnb to secure visibility and tap into an investor network. Personal connections made at these events often result in valuable partnerships.

### Mentorship Programs

Mentorship can significantly impact a startup’s trajectory. Programs like Y Combinator not only provide funding but also connect startups with experienced mentors who offer guidance and support. This relationship can be invaluable for navigating challenges and gaining insights into investor expectations.

## Incorporating Technology and Innovation

### Embracing Artificial Intelligence

AI is transforming industries and attracting significant investment. Startups that integrate AI-driven solutions can stand out in a crowded market. OpenAI exemplifies this trend by pushing the boundaries of AI technology, showcasing its potential to enhance productivity and efficiency across sectors.

### Leveraging Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology can be used for offering various solutions for industries in a secured and transparent manner. For example, Propy uses blockchain to create a smooth and transparent real estate buying experience. This kind of novelty could attract the attention of a VC looking for disruptive technologies with ease.

## Crafting a Solid Business Plan and Financial Model

### Focus on Scalability

Investors especially favor startups that can scale quickly. A good business plan would focus on scalability and returns on investment. For example, Zoom scaled up really fast during the pandemic to meet increasing demand for virtual communication.

### Showing Traction and Metrics

Clear metrics and evidence of traction are key to securing investment. Indeed, Slack has been effectively communicating user growth and engagement metrics to ensure that investors have confidence in its long-term viability. Founders should monitor KPIs and make use of them in communication about their startup's progress and potential.

## Going to Market Globally

### Understanding International Opportunities

The global market is more integrated than ever. Shopify has capitalized on this global growth by enabling entrepreneurs from all over the world to start e-commerce businesses. Founders should study the market extensively to find opportunities for growth outside of immediate markets.

### Adapting to Regulatory Changes

Entering new markets is all about understanding the regulatory requirements and finding your way through them. TransferWise (now Wise), with competitive financial services, succeeded in getting through cross-border regulations and earned investor trust by means of transparency and compliance.

## Practicing Social Responsibility

### Community Centric Brand Building

The more community engaging startups tend to win more investors. TOMS has its entire brand identity built around doing good socially by donating a pair of shoes with every purchase, which goes well with both consumers and investors very sensitive to corporate social responsibility.

### Transparency and Ethical Practices

Investors also consider startups' ethics. Everlane created a brand by showing price and source transparency. The element of transparency and maintaining ethical practices can bring in the trust factor for the investors in such startups.

## Preparing for Pitch Meetings

### Creating a Compelling Pitch Deck

A well-articulated pitch deck is a fundamental ingredient for attracting investment. Square has effectively delivered its value proposition with crystal clear, engaging pitch presentations that leveraged substantial funding. Founders should focus on clarity, storytelling, and aesthetic appeal of decks.

### Practicing Effective Communication

Clear and confident communication can really impact investor perceptions about the start-up. Pitch coaching services will help founders perfect their presentation skills, much like in some successful Shark Tank pitches. Founders should be continuously practicing how to articulate a crisp vision of their startup.

## Embracing Continuous Learning and Adaptation

### Staying Informed About Market Trends

The nature of the startup ecosystem is ever-evolving. Netflix has grown successfully by adapting to the changing consumer preference and staying ahead of the trends relating to streaming services. Engaging with industry newsletters and forums can be incredibly helpful for founders.

### Learning from Failure

Failure can be a stepping stone to success. Airbnb got lots of 'no's prior to becoming the force they are today. Perseverance and adaptability somehow culminate into being paths of eventual success.

Founders will do well by embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

![Image from Pexels](img/pexels-proxyclick-2451646.jpg "Image from Pexels")

Image from [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/ru-ru/)

## Key Trends to Watch in 2025

### Generative AI and Autonomous Technology

Generative AI is changing everything from marketing to healthcare. Start-ups that use AI to personalize experiences and drive efficiencies in operations are set to emerge. Companies like Jasper AI power content creation for businesses, automating processes and making marketing more effective.

### Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Fintech Innovations

DeFi opens up new vistas for startups. Platforms like Aave are allowing peer-to-peer lending with no intermediaries, and BNPL solutions are deeply being embedded in several industries such as healthcare and retail.

### Logistics and Manufacturing Innovations

This has pushed startups to innovate in logistics and manufacturing as a solution to global supply chain disruptions. Companies like Flexport work their way into making supply chains resilient and efficient with the help of technology.

### Hyper-Personalized Offerings

More and more, the consumer expects personalization. Startups using data-driven personalization to craft unique shopping experiences will do very well. For example, e-commerce platforms like Stitch Fix already use algorithms that recommend certain types of clothing based on an individual's tastes and previous purchases.

### Climate Technology and Sustainable Consumer Goods

With growing environmental awareness, climate technology and sustainable product startups will continue to take the lead. Companies like Tesla have shown that sustainable transportation is a very viable market, and this has triggered a new wave of innovation in clean energy solutions.

### Vertical SaaS and Industry-Specific Solutions

Specialized software solutions are in greater demand. Vertical SaaS startups **\-** likeGusto for HR management - find their niches by providing tailored solutions to particular industries, bringing both efficiency and compliance to their clients.

### New Applications of Web3

Platforms like Lens Protocol are building out decentralized social networks that put ownership of content in the hands of users, further privatizing information.

The shift to hybrid work is here to stay, with startups creating products to help manage distributed teams. Platforms like Remote are facilitating seamless hiring and management of global talent, while Freelancer.com connects businesses with freelancers, capitalizing on the gig economy.

### Conscious Consumerism and Ethical Startups

With more consciousness among consumers regarding the power of their purchase, startups focusing on ethical practice and sustainability will be better positioned to thrive. Companies like Bombas, which donates socks for each pair sold, are building a loyal customer base that prizes social impact alongside product quality.

## Conclusion

In 2025, attracting a startup investment would need a holistic approach-software-based, sustainable innovation, and strategic networking included. 

If entrepreneurs adhere to these strategies and stay attuned with emerging trends, they could attract investment, but also contribute to building businesses that help create value for society and the economy. The journey can indeed be hard but rewarding when done with the proper approach and touch of humanity!

Learn about startup investment in 2025. Discover key trends and prominent examples

How to attract startup investment in 2025: new strategies and trends 

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