(Image: Supplied)
North East entrepreneurs have raised their growth expectations for a sixth consecutive quarter, while more than half created jobs in the past three months despite economic uncertainty.
The latest Entrepreneurs’ Forum Pulse Survey found that 83 per cent of North East entrepreneurs expect turnover to rise over the next 12 months, up from 79 per cent in May 2026.
Elaine Stroud, chief executive of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: "There is a lot to be encouraged by in these results.
"Growth expectations have now strengthened for six consecutive quarters, businesses are creating jobs, and many of our members are seeing strong demand, new contracts, and opportunities ahead."
More than a third of respondents expect turnover to grow by over 20 per cent, while just three per cent expect a decline.
Job creation is rising, with 56 per cent of businesses adding roles last quarter, up from 49 per cent in May 2026.
Just 13 per cent reported reducing headcount.
Ms Stroud said: "What is interesting is the contrast between confidence in their own businesses and confidence in the wider environment.
"Entrepreneurs are known for backing themselves, but one in three delaying a decision until after the Budget shows that greater clarity around the conditions in which businesses are operating really does matter.
"Entrepreneurs are used to navigating uncertainty, but decisions around people and investment become harder when the goalposts feel less certain."
Although 77 per cent of entrepreneurs remain optimistic about the year ahead, they are cautious about the wider economic and political picture.
Ahead of the Government’s October Budget, 34 per cent said they were delaying at least one business decision, most often recruitment (22 per cent) or capital investment (18 per cent).
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Brendon Hayward, chair of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, said: "As we look ahead to the first North East Entrepreneurship Week in November, these findings reinforce something we see every day: the ambition is already here.
"Our opportunity as a region is to build on that momentum, create more connections and opportunities, and help more people start, grow, and scale businesses in the North East."
Confidence has risen steadily since a dip in February 2025, when just 52 per cent of entrepreneurs expected turnover growth.