F/MS Top Startup Cities

5 min read

Newport, United Kingdom #656

City Scores

City Total Score

0.236

Overall ranking score

Quality Score

0.03

Ecosystem quality rating

Quantity Score

0.02

Ecosystem size rating

Business Score

0.19

Business environment rating

Score Distribution

Score Comparison

MeanCEO Index Click to scroll to details

63

Startup Ecosystem in Newport, UK 🚀

TL;DR

Newport is currently ranked as the 656th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. This vibrant Welsh city is steadily evolving into a nurturing ground for innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in technology and digital sectors.

Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

  • Business Registration: Registration is simple and can be done online via the Companies House.
  • Local Support: Access to resources and agencies helping startups navigate the registration process efficiently.

2. Employment Law 🏢

  • Labor Regulations: UK employment laws are comprehensive, ensuring employee rights are well protected, which may present complexities for new startups.
  • Hiring Foreign Talent: Relative ease in obtaining work permits, though paperwork is required for compliance.

3. Taxation 💰

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Standard rate is 19%, with potential relief for startups in certain sectors.
  • Tax Incentives: Access to various tax reliefs such as R&D tax credits to stimulate innovative activities.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

  • Living Standards: Reasonable living costs compared to larger UK cities; offers a balance of urban amenities and green spaces.
  • Culture and Leisure: A rich cultural scene with events, festivals, and outdoor activities along the scenic waterfront.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

  • Ease of Navigation: Generally manageable, but some regulatory requirements can be time-consuming.
  • Government Support: Active local government initiatives aimed at supporting entrepreneurship.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

  • Startup Visas & Permits: Options are available for foreign entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the UK.
  • Residency Options: Various visa routes including Innovator and Startup visas support long-term residency for entrepreneurs.

Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

  • Frequent startup meetups, pitch events, and workshops encouraging collaboration and sharing of ideas.
  • Incubators and organizations such as the Innovate UK partner on events to foster growth and investment.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

  • Various funding opportunities from local government and specialized programs aimed at startups.
  • Newport City Council supports innovation through grants and subsidies.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

  • Investments: Growing interest from VCs primarily in technology startups.
  • Major Firms: Some local and regional VC firms focus on tech-related investments.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

  • Resources like the Celtic Manor Resort’s Business Incubator offer support to tech startups through mentorship, training, and funding opportunities.
  • Access to programs that facilitate networking and development.

Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

  • Focus Areas: A strong focus on cybersecurity, digital services, and software development.
  • Government Initiatives: Targeted support for tech-driven businesses to enhance innovation and growth.

Business Culture 🏙️

  • Language: English is the primary business language, making it accommodating for most entrepreneurs.
  • Work Environment: Emphasizes collaboration and innovation in a community-driven landscape.

General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

  • Favorable living costs compared to major UK cities.
  • A supportive local community and government initiatives.
  • Emerging opportunities in digital and tech sectors.

Cons:

  • Less recognition on the global startup stage compared to larger cities.
  • Limited access to extensive VC funding compared to major hubs.

Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

  • Increasing initiatives aimed specifically at supporting women in tech and entrepreneurship.
  • Access to funding rounds and mentorship opportunities tailored for female founders.

Newport is evolving as a promising destination for startups, especially in tech, offering a conducive environment blessed with the charm of Welsh culture. 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Newport, UK 🚀

Newport is on the rise as an attractive destination for startups, especially in technology. But how does it score for female entrepreneurs in particular? Let’s dive into the MeanCEO Index to understand the environment better.

1. Weather ☀️

  • Score: 5/10
    • Newport has a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and moderate rainfall. While it doesn’t boast a lot of sunshine, the weather is generally manageable for outdoor activities and networking.

2. Location 🏖️

  • Score: 4/10
    • Situated near the coast, it offers some access to beaches, though they aren’t always suitable for swimming. Its proximity to larger cities like Cardiff is a positive aspect, but the immediate access to ideal beach conditions is limited.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

  • Score: 7/10
    • The UK has made strides in promoting gender equality, and Newport is no exception. The community is supportive of women in business, with increasing initiatives aimed at female entrepreneurs, contributing to a more inclusive environment.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Generally welcoming to foreigners, but Newport is a smaller city where forging connections may require more effort. However, the local community is known for its friendliness, which bodes well for international female entrepreneurs.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

  • Score: 10/10
    • English is the primary language, making it very accessible for non-native speakers. This is a significant advantage for international entrepreneurs.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍷

  • Score: 5/10
    • The cuisine reflects typical British fare, which may not be particularly renowned for its diversity. However, local food includes hearty, traditional dishes, and while onions are somewhat common, local Welsh cakes and cheeses add a unique flair.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Newport has a vibrant community, but the dating scene may not be as active as in larger cities. However, it’s considered a family-friendly environment, making it a reasonable place for starting a family.

8. Medicine 🏥

  • Score: 7/10
    • The NHS provides access to healthcare, though wait times can be a factor. Generally, residents can access appointments and services at a reasonable cost, contributing positively to quality of life.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

  • Score: 6/10
    • Public transport is available, but it may not be as extensive as in larger cities. Newport does have good connections to Cardiff and beyond, although an international airport isn’t directly in the city, making travel slightly less convenient.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

  • Score: 7/10
    • Newport’s entrepreneurial landscape is growing with supportive initiatives and government backing. However, the culture around failure in startups isn’t as pronounced as in larger hubs, which could deter some entrepreneurs.

MeanCEO Index Score: 63/100 🎉

Newport is steadily evolving as a favorable environment for female entrepreneurs, particularly within the tech sector. While it offers several supportive initiatives and a welcoming community, challenges such as limited international visibility and transportation options persist. However, the combination of a friendly culture, access to resources, and a rising startup mindset makes Newport a promising place for women looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey.

Happy entrepreneurship in Newport! 🚀