LinkedIn reports a dramatic increase in the number of people identifying themselves as "founders" in Europe. Is this a new era of entrepreneurship or simply a reaction to changes in the labor market? Let's see.
Founders on a Pedestal
Data from the professional networking platform indicates an impressive surge in the number of members adding "founder" to their profiles. The growth compared to last year is 60%, and compared to 2022 - almost tripled. This phenomenon is not just a statistical anomaly; it reflects a serious change in the dynamics of work.
This is most evident in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, where the increase is 85% and 69% respectively, in the period from July 2024 to July 2025. Spain, Germany and France also report remarkable growth, respectively 68%, 61% and 49%.
Why this boom?
But what lies behind this explosion of entrepreneurial spirit? The answer seems to be complex and related to both economic conditions and a change in attitudes.
Europe is still trying to find the ideal balance in business. This leads to layoffs and delays in hiring, which is a consequence of the boom during the pandemic. Sue Duke, Managing Director for EMEA and LATAM and Vice President of Global Public Policy at LinkedIn, notes that the labor market has slowed down, but is not at a standstill.
Hiring globally is about 20% lower than pre-pandemic levels. Leading economies such as the United Kingdom, France and Germany are experiencing a decline of between 20% and 35%. Thus, competition in the labor market is becoming increasingly fierce. The average number of candidates for one position has doubled since 2022. About half of the people in the world expect to look for work in 2026 - a rather bleak prospect.
Market Reactions
How then does the workforce adapt to this changed reality? A generational divide is observed.
The older generation seems to be sticking to their jobs. Sue Duke points out that employees are "clinging on tightly" and waiting to see what will happen. Job changes have reached a 10-year low on the platform.
"This cautious environment makes workers wait," says Duke, "and when jobs appear, the competition for them is very fierce."
Young people, however, approach it differently. They are more likely to enter the market and find a job - or create their own. According to the data, four out of every 10 people among them would like to start their own business. That's why, in addition to economic factors, there is also an entrepreneurial spirit among young people.
Young people in action
Today there are more graduates than ever, and with limited job prospects, they are ready to work hard and take more risks.
Initial data show that 28% of young people in Europe combine several jobs. Their goals vary, including additional income (52%), starting their own business (24%) and building a network of contacts (22%).
Ultimately, is this growth in "founders" a lasting trend or just a temporary response to changing times? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure - the landscape of work is changing before our eyes.