**New Initiative Aims to Transform the UK’s Side Hustles into Flourishing Small Businesses**
A significant push to nurture the growth of small businesses in the United Kingdom has been unveiled, with particular attention given to side-hustles and emerging start-ups. Small Business Britain, in collaboration with eBay, has announced the opening of the Side-Hustle Lab, a complimentary six-week online course designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful enterprises. The scheme launches on 4 June and is available to anyone across the UK eager to set their business ambitions in motion.
This initiative comes against the backdrop of a worrying trend: the number of small businesses in the UK has shrunk by 9% over the previous five years, dipping from a high of 6 million in 2020 to a current figure of 5.45 million. In light of this decline, the organisations behind the Side-Hustle Lab are jointly urging broader support for those embarking on entrepreneurial journeys, especially individuals whose ventures begin as secondary projects alongside other employment.
Research conducted by Small Business Britain and eBay reveals that side-hustles have rapidly become the preferred route into entrepreneurship. A notable 39% of small enterprises start this way and, impressively, nearly half of these—46%—eventually transition into full-fledged businesses. This shift is especially pertinent during times of economic hardship, as many seek supplemental income to offset the rising cost of living.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain, emphasised the importance of supporting these early-stage businesses. She noted, “While many innovative companies start as side projects, transforming an initial idea into a sustainable venture requires education, self-assurance, and robust support.” Ovens urged for enhanced measures to accelerate side-hustles into the larger business arena, highlighting the economic benefits this growth could bring to the UK.
The Side-Hustle Lab aims to offer practical, hands-on guidance to as many as 500 budding businesspeople. Participants will have access to expert-led training, including foundational advice on business basics, efficient time management, market promotion strategies—such as how to maximise sales on eBay—customer service excellence, business scalability, as well as legal and financial know-how to ensure sustainable progress.
A unique element of the programme is its focus on digital skills. In a landscape where digital-first enterprises are on the rise, building competency in areas like e-commerce, online marketing, and even artificial intelligence is vital. This approach is designed to ensure the new generation of business owners can thrive amid shifting consumer behaviours and technological advancements.
Participants will not only receive direct tuition but will also become part of a supportive community. The course includes opportunities to network with fellow entrepreneurs and learn from those who have successfully navigated the journey from side-hustle to established business. Ryan Panchoo, founder of Borough 22 doughnuts, serves as a prime example. Beginning his allergen-free doughnut business in his kitchen, Panchoo grew his sideline into a thriving company, now stocked in prominent high street retailers. He credits determination and a willingness to take the initial leap as crucial to his story.
Eve Williams, Vice President and General Manager of eBay UK, reflected on the opportunities provided by platforms such as eBay. Williams noted, “Our objective is for anyone, regardless of background, to be able to launch and develop a business. By removing barriers and opening up access to millions of customers, we want to pave the way for emerging entrepreneurs.”
The announcement has been met with optimism by observers, who point out that small businesses have long formed the backbone of the UK economy. Yet, in the current climate, additional support is required to stem the decline in business numbers and foster innovation. The Side-Hustle Lab is seen as a timely response, offering practical resources and inspiration to those looking to transform personal passion into commercial success.
Applications for the Small Business Britain x eBay Side-Hustle Lab are now open, with further information available on the programme’s website. As the business landscape evolves, initiatives such as this are set to play an essential role in helping the UK’s next generation of entrepreneurs realise their ambitions.