Neurodivergent entrepreneurs held back by barriers linked to traditional workplaces 

 A government-backed report has found that many neurodivergent entrepreneurs turn to self-employment after struggling in traditional workplaces. However, barriers to finance and business support are preventing many from growing their businesses. 

The research, published by Small Business Britain and backed by Lloyds and Ebay, surveyed 629 neurodivergent entrepreneurs. It found that 61 per cent of the respondents had delayed starting or scaling a business because of challenges linked to their neurodivergence.  

More than three-quarters (76 per cent) said they chose entrepreneurship to work more flexibly and in ways that better suited their needs, while 53 per cent said difficulties fitting into traditional workplaces had pushed them towards business ownership.  

The findings suggest workplace design and employment practices may be contributing to the loss of entrepreneurial talent from organisations, with many neurodivergent individuals choosing self-employment after finding conventional work environments difficult to navigate.  

Researchers found that more than half of respondents struggled to find neurodivergent-accessible business support. Meanwhile, 65 per cent said guidance from someone who understood neurodivergent entrepreneurship would have been valuable.  

The report argues that current systems often create unnecessary complexity through lengthy forms, rigid processes and communication styles that favour polished presentations and business jargon. It recommends that government, financial services providers and business support organisations design neurodivergent-friendly support from the outset rather than treating accessibility as an add-on.  

Recommendations include creating more accessible finance pathways, simplifying administrative processes, investing in neurodivergent-led peer networks and recognising AI and digital productivity tools as reasonable adjustments through Access to Work funding.  

Despite the barriers, the report highlights strong entrepreneurial ambition within the neurodivergent community. Focus group participants described attributes including attention to detail, focus and determination as key strengths in running a business. One entrepreneur described their neurodivergence as their “greatest strength”.  

The report also found many founders remain reluctant to disclose their neurodivergence. Just 7 per cent believed other businesses understood or accommodated their needs, while only 51 per cent said they would feel comfortable discussing their neurodivergence in certain circumstances.  

The findings build on the Lilac Review, which highlighted the economic contribution of disabled entrepreneurs. While disabled entrepreneurs account for around 25 per cent of the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses, they generate just 8.6 per cent of business turnover, suggesting significant untapped growth potential.