F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Brighton, United Kingdom #190

City Scores

City Total Score

2.453

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.2

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.32

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

1.93

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

74

Startup Ecosystem in Brighton πŸš€

TL;DR

Brighton is currently ranked 190th in the Global F/MS β€œBest Cities for Startups” Index. Known for its vibrant culture and innovative spirit, Brighton provides a welcoming community for startups, particularly in tech and creative sectors.


Startup-Friendly Stuff πŸ“ˆ

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Streamlined online registration processes make starting a business easier.
  • Startup Incentives: Local initiatives offer grants and mentoring for tech startups.

2. Employment Law 🏒

  • Labor Regulations: Comprehensive laws protect rights, though navigating them can be challenging for small businesses.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Fairly straightforward, but work visas are required.

3. Taxation πŸ’°

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Standard corporate tax is around 19%, with incentives for qualifying startups.
  • VAT Regulations: Competitive VAT rates, particularly for digital services.

4. Quality of Life πŸŒ†

  • Living Standards: High quality, with a vibrant arts scene, beaches, and a diverse community. Cost of living is moderate.
  • Culture and Leisure: A rich cultural landscape with festivals, theaters, and outdoor activities.

5. Bureaucracy πŸ—‚οΈ

  • Ease of Navigation: Generally manageable, but local regulations can vary and may require attention.
  • Government Support: Active support from local councils aimed at fostering entrepreneurship.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Accessible options for acquiring business visas, focused on innovation.
  • Residency Options: Routes available for those looking to establish long-term residence through business development.

Startup Community 🀝

7. Networking Events

  • Regular tech meetups, pitch nights, and industry workshops cater to various sectors.
  • Annual events often draw in investors and experienced entrepreneurs from across the UK.

8. Subsidies and Funding πŸ’΅

  • Government and local initiatives provide financial aid for startups in critical sectors.
  • Many incubator programs also offer funding opportunities for early-stage companies.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: A growing community of VCs actively looking to support innovative startups.
  • Major Firms: Several smaller VC firms focus on tech and creative industries in the region.

10. Incubators & Accelerators πŸš€

  • Home to various incubators specializing in tech startups, creative businesses, and social enterprises.
  • Support includes mentorship, office space, and access to funding.

Technology & Industry Priorities πŸ”§

  • Focus Areas: Digital media, mobile tech, gaming, and creative industries.
  • Government Initiatives: Emphasis on technology-driven growth and sustainability practices.

Business Culture πŸ™οΈ

  • Language: English is the primary language for business, fostering a friendly environment for foreign entrepreneurs.
  • Work Environment: The culture is innovative and collaborative, with a strong community ethos.

General Pros and Cons βš–οΈ

Pros:

  • Creative and tech-friendly environment with excellent community support.
  • Proximity to London for additional resources and networking.
  • A diverse population that encourages inclusivity.

Cons:

  • Limited access to high-level venture capital compared to larger cities.
  • The housing market can be competitive and expensive.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs πŸ‘©β€πŸ’Ό

  • Various local initiatives support women-led businesses through networking opportunities, funding programs, and workshops.
  • A strong emphasis on inclusivity within the startup ecosystem fosters female entrepreneurship.

Brighton presents an inspiring landscape for entrepreneurs seeking a supportive, innovative community. πŸš€

MeanCEO Index for Brighton πŸš€

Brighton, a vibrant city on the southern coast of England, is recognized for its innovative spirit and thriving startup community. But how does it measure up for female entrepreneurs? Let’s explore the MeanCEO Index score based on ten critical factors.


1. Weather β˜€οΈ

  • Score: 6/10
    • Brighton enjoys a temperate maritime climate with a fair amount of sunny days, especially during summer. While winters can be damp, overall, it’s pleasant enough for year-round outdoor activities.

2. Location πŸ–οΈ

  • Score: 9/10
    • The city has stunning seafront views and easy beach access, perfect for those who love the ocean. Warm waters and beach activities add to the allure, making it a fantastic location for both work and relaxation.

3. Women Friendly πŸ‘©β€πŸ’Ό

  • Score: 8/10
    • Brighton is known for its progressive atmosphere and inclusivity, particularly regarding gender equality. Numerous initiatives support women in business, fostering an empowering environment for female entrepreneurs.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 8/10
    • The city is known for its welcoming attitude toward newcomers, including women from abroad. Its diverse community encourages networking and forming friendships, making it easier for foreigners to integrate.

5. English as a Business Language πŸ“š

  • Score: 10/10
    • English is the primary business language, making communication simple for international entrepreneurs. This accessibility is a significant advantage for women from non-English speaking backgrounds.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 7/10
    • Brighton boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a focus on fresh, local produce. While onions are present, the city’s food offerings are varied and generally healthy, mixed with some local wine options.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family πŸ’

  • Score: 5/10
    • The city boasts active social scenes, but the competitive nature of the dating landscape and rising housing costs may pose challenges for those looking to settle down and start families.

8. Medicine πŸ₯

  • Score: 6/10
    • Access to healthcare in Brighton is decent, though wait times can be an issue. Public health services are generally reliable and affordable, though private care options are also available for quicker service.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 8/10
    • Brighton has a good public transport system and easy access to London, enhancing travel options. While local public transportation could improve, the city is well-connected overall.

10. Startup Mindset πŸ’‘

  • Score: 7/10
    • The culture is supportive of entrepreneurial endeavors, with a general acceptance of failure as part of the journey. However, some concerns about the availability of high-level venture capital may limit broader opportunities.

MeanCEO Index Score: 74/100 πŸŽ‰

Brighton presents a solid landscape for female entrepreneurs, combining a supportive community with a vibrant culture and a welcoming environment. While challenges like a competitive housing market exist, the rich array of opportunities, resources, and a generally positive mindset toward startups make it a compelling choice for women eager to thrive in the entrepreneurial space.

Keep pushing the boundaries, and happy entrepreneurship! πŸš€