Belfast’s startup scene struggles compared to other UK cities

Belfast has been ranked near the bottom in the UK for startups, according to a new study by fulfilment.com, which analysed business activity and economic conditions across dozens of cities nationwide. The study used data from the ONS and Centre for Cities.

While big cities like London often grab the headlines for business and innovation, the study shows that Belfast’s startup scene faces a different reality. Smaller ecosystems here can offer tight-knit communities and unique opportunities, but overall the conditions for launching a new business are more challenging compared with the UK’s top-ranked cities.

The study looked at several factors that help shape a city’s startup scene, including the number of new businesses opening and closing per 10,000 residents, the presence of “new economy” firms, high-growth companies, and levels of economic inactivity.

The city records 29.7 business start-ups per 10,000 residents and 21.8 new economy firms per 10,000 residents, numbers that are lower than most other UK cities. Belfast supports 70 high-growth businesses, showing that while opportunities exist for scaling, the overall ecosystem for new startups is relatively limited. Its economic inactivity rate of 32.1% indicates a higher proportion of residents not engaged in work or actively seeking opportunities, which can make it harder for new businesses to find both employees and customers.

Business closures sit at 29 per 10,000 residents, reflecting a mixed environment where some ideas can succeed but others struggle to gain traction. Belfast’s startup scene is still developing, and entrepreneurs may face challenges finding local networks, funding, or support compared to cities like Luton or Brighton and Hove.

James Olsen, a spokesperson for fulfilment.com, spoke about the realities of starting a business in the UK. “You’re doing a bit of everything – answering emails at midnight, chasing invoices, trying to keep your costs down while still growing. Almost everyone going solo feels that pinch at some point.”

“It can be stressful and lonely, especially when things don’t go as planned. You celebrate the small wins, but setbacks can hit hard. That’s why having a supportive local network, other small businesses nearby, or even just a few people to bounce ideas off, makes a real difference.”

“Being in a place where businesses are actively trying new things, where there’s energy and ambition around you, gives you momentum. It’s about picking a spot where you feel inspired, then putting in the work to make your ideas happen.”

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