Partner Article

Success Isn’t Solo: Why Entrepreneurs Need a Community to Thrive

The UK economy is limping its way back to growth — just about. The latest figures tell us we’re seeing movement in the right direction, but at a pace that feels frustratingly slow. And let’s be honest, for entrepreneurs, that frustration can turn into a sense of isolation and pressure. You carry the weight of your business, your team and your ambitions. It’s a lot.

But here’s the reality: those who surround themselves with the right people will navigate 2025 far more successfully than those who try to tough it out alone. In uncertain times, it’s not just about strategy and resilience — it’s about who you have in your corner.

In 2023, researchers from Bath University studied the impact of loneliness on entrepreneurs. The findings weren’t surprising but were certainly sobering: business owners without strong support networks were more likely to feel helpless and isolated, and in turn, more likely to see their businesses fail.

Entrepreneurship can be lonely but it doesn’t have to be.

That’s why community matters, not just as a nice-to-have but as a critical factor in long-term success. Throughout our 20+ years of connecting North East entrepreneurs, we’ve seen first-hand that the founders who thrive, innovate and push through tough times are those who intentionally build and nurture their networks. They understand that success isn’t just about hitting revenue targets or scaling their business; it’s also about surrounding themselves with people who inspire, challenge and uplift them.

I firmly believe that successful entrepreneurs don’t just have contacts; they have allies. These are the people who act as sounding boards, who help you see the bigger picture when you’re caught up in the ‘busyness’ of business. They’re the ones who remind you why you started in the first place, keeping your passion alive even when the going gets tough.

And yet, this is sometimes neglected. Some assume their existing connections will always be there. But relationships require effort. They require intention. A strong support network doesn’t happen by accident; it’s built through consistent engagement, shared experiences and mutual support.

So take a moment. Write down the names of your ‘go-to’ people, those you turn to for advice, support or simply a dose of perspective. Then ask yourself: are these relationships strong? Do you nurture them? And crucially, are there any gaps in your network?

If you’re feeling that gap — you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs find themselves stuck in a bubble, caught up in the day-to-day grind without a space to step back and connect with like-minded people who truly get it. This is where memberships like the Entrepreneurs’ Forum make all the difference.

We’re not just about community; we’re about uniting passionate business owners who understand that success is a shared journey. Through peer-to-peer learning, inspiring events and a culture of support, we create an environment where over 340 entrepreneurs don’t just survive challenging times — they thrive.

The truth is no one builds a great business alone. Every successful entrepreneur has, at some point, leaned on others for guidance, insight and encouragement. Whether it’s through mentorship, peer learning or simply knowing you’re part of something bigger, being connected to the right community can be the difference between struggling in isolation and accelerating towards success.

Make 2025 the year you actively strengthen your network. Reach out, check in and be generous with your own support, because the more you invest in your relationships, the more resilient you’ll be when challenges arise. And if you’re looking for a space where you can connect, learn and grow alongside other ambitious business leaders, the Entrepreneurs’ Forum is here for you.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Entrepreneurs' Forum .