A new survey reveals that lack of funding, fear of failure, and lack of experience are the main reasons UK adults delay starting a business, prompting AXA UK to launch a competition and support event for aspiring entrepreneurs.

A OnePoll.com survey of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by AXA UK found that lack of funding (60%), lack of experience, and fear of failure are the top barriers stopping aspiring entrepreneurs, while tax and accounting issues (28%) are the biggest operational challenge; AXA UK is running its Startup Angel competition offering £25,000 plus mentoring and will host a kitchen table event at Broadgate Circle, London on Thursday 7th May 2026 with mentors Raphael Sofoluke and Izzy Obeng.