TV entrepreneurs 'inspire new businesses'

The prominence of entrepreneurs in the media is inspiring more people to launch their own enterprises.

Media coverage of self-made successes such as Lord Alan Sugar and the Dragon's Den stars could see people trying to create their own employment opportunities to become their own boss, according to a government study.

Research from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has revealed that one in five non-entrepreneurs are being inspired by programmes such as the Apprentice and the Secret Millionaire.

The department says media portrayals of start-up firms and successful businessmen are helping to promote a more positive image of entrepreneurship.

BIS minister Mark Prisk says the media has a crucial role in motivating the next generation of entrepreneurs, who could in turn create new jobs as their businesses grow.

He said: "The media has such an important role to play in creating a positive image around entrepreneurship and starting your own business. It is very encouraging to see such a dramatic shift in recent years. And I hope this trend continues.

"The government is focused relentlessly on supporting growth across our economy. Backing and encouraging new enterprises to start up, and small businesses to grow, will deliver new jobs and transform our economy."

Practical knowledge and guidance in starting a new venture have also been provided by programmes such as Dragon's Den, according to the survey.

Figures revealed that 40 per cent of those questioned said enterprise shows had shown them the practical steps necessary to start a new business.

Entepreneurs in Action (EiA) also appreciates the positive influence the media has had for budding businessmen.

Its programmes help people to experience a taste of the business world, and experience the challenges launching a new venture can involve.

The initiative says Dragon's Den and other shows have helped to raise the profile of entrepreneurs, but the format of these programmes is not the only way new enterprises can form.

Derek Browne, chief executive and founder of EiA, says there are drawbacks to thinking the style of business that works on TV is the "only way to be".

He said: "EiA sees more and more young people looking at entrepreneurship as a possible career path and benefiting tremendously from having a taste of what the business world means, for example by working with local companies on real-life challenges, classroom to boardroom projects and classroom activities which build students' confidence and their business understanding."

Natwest's Business Knowledge Series saw James Caan offer business advice to budding entrepreneurs on March 16th.

On a panel with Peter Ibbetson, small business chairman for the bank, and Fab 3D Ltd founder Amanda Faulkner-Whalen, the Dragon's Den star shared his experiences in launching a successful enterprise.

Participants in the live web chat also had the chance to win a one-on-one mentoring session with Mr Caan at his Mayfair office.

Advice on managing a new business, cashflow and other issues was delivered to viewers, with opportunities for them to question the experts on employment opportunities as self-employed businessmen.

Launching a business could be a way for those struggling to secure jobs to explore their ideas for new ventures, as well as securing an income.

More information about the BIS study can be found on its official website. 

People looking to start a new business can find valuable information on the Business Link site.