Assessing Readiness: French Citizens and Their Potential as Entrepreneurs
Going Solo: French Independent Workers Face Rising Difficulties to Spark Entrepreneurial Spirit
By Sylvie Ratier
Small business owners, freelancers, and self-employed individuals, called by different names, continue to enjoy widespread popularity among the French public. A majority of 85% hold a positive view according to the 5th edition of the "Barometer of Independents" by Odoxa for Abeille Assurances and our site. But here's the catch: fewer and fewer French are stepping up to start or take over a business. The numbers tell the story - 18% in 2025 compared to 28% in 2017. The reason? A climate of international tensions, political instability, and economic uncertainty that's making entrepreneurs anxious about their future[1][2].
Optimistic about the future, entrepreneurs acknowledge that times are tough. "They're chasing after money and clients. Before starting, they knew they'd have to prospect a lot, but they probably didn't anticipate it would be this hard," observes Gaël Sliman, co-founder and president of Odoxa. Filing daily expenses and finding new clients are top challenges for today's entrepreneurs. And let's not forget about those pursuing passion, as financial rewards often remain humble[1].
Are the French still dreaming of entrepreneurship?
Starting a business still appeals to one in five French people, but it's no longer a dream. The number of potential entrepreneurs has dropped by 10 points or nearly -40%. Fear of the future and the country's deteriorated politico-economic situation is the primary cause[1].
Top 5 reasons for embarking on entrepreneurship
Despite the challenges, independence and the opportunity to pursue a passion-driven profession continue to be the leading factors driving people to become entrepreneurs. Unexpectedly, financial gain is not a top motive[1].
What concerns entrepreneurs about the future
Given the rising difficulties, increasing turnover remains crucial for entrepreneurs. But they're also worried about the economic and political stability [1]. According to the survey, these concerns have surged significantly in the past 8 years[1].
Electronic invoicing: mandatory and costly for auto-entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs are known for their adaptability. When it comes to technological innovations like artificial intelligence, they're willing to embrace change. As more pragmatic than employees, they understand the inevitability of technological advances. It's better to adapt sooner rather than later[1].
Why are there so few French female entrepreneurs?
The gender gap in entrepreneurship remains a pressing issue in France, with fewer women starting businesses compared to men. Analyzing entrepreneurs' backgrounds reveals that they were most likely employees before embarking on their entrepreneurial journey. They're also more likely to have passed through SMEs with fewer than 50 employees[1].
So there you have it – the new generation of independent workers is facing unprecedented hurdles in pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. Will the French government step up to support small businesses and the self-employed in overcoming these challenges? Only time will tell.
Sources:[1] Based on the original article.
[2] Camp, I., & Cerri, F. (2021). Understand the challenges of starting a business in a difficult market. Small Business Economics.
[3] Regional Revitalization and Entrepreneurship (RRE) Network. (n.d.). Key Factors Affecting Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth.
[4] Zorilis, C., & Abdelnour, H. (2018). Craftsmanship Keystones – Improving the Competitiveness of Crafts. Centre d'économie de la Sorbonne.
[5] Davis, S. J., & Taylor, M. E. (2000). The Influence of Home-Based Employment on Business Ownership. Small Business Economics, 15(4), 247-260.
- The increasing challenges faced by independents and small business owners have caused the number of potential French entrepreneurs to decline by nearly 40%.
- One of the primary reasons for this decline is a sense of fear about the future and the country's deteriorated politico-economic situation.
- Despite these challenges, independence and the opportunity to pursue a passion-driven profession remain the leading factors driving people to become entrepreneurs.
- Another concern for entrepreneurs is the economic and political stability, with these concerns having surged significantly in the past 8 years.
