The University of South Wales (USW) has reinforced its position as a leader in fostering entrepreneurial talent, ranking top three in the UK for the total number of graduate businesses in the latest published figures. USW also retains it’s title as best in Wales for new graduate start-ups for the fifth year running.
Figures provided by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) show that, in 2023/24, USW moved up to sixth place, out of 220 UK universities, for new business start-ups and is also first in Wales for the number of active graduate businesses. The University has also placed second in Wales and sixth in the UK for establishing businesses that have been trading for at least three years.
Dr Louise Bright, USW’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise, Engagement and Partnerships, said: “I’m thrilled that USW continues to set the benchmark as the ‘Entrepreneurial University of Wales’. This success is a real testament to the ambition and talent of our graduate entrepreneurs, who are supported every step of the way through our dynamic enterprise initiatives.
“At USW, entrepreneurial thinking is woven into everything we do. We are passionate about helping our students to thrive — and equipping them with these sought-after skills ensures they can lead, innovate, and stand out in today’s competitive world.”
USW’s Faculty of Business and Creative Industries graduates represented more than half of the new ventures. These businesses span a diverse range of sectors, from media production and videography to fashion design, music, and games development.
This sustained success is attributed to the University’s dedicated focus and investment in entrepreneurship, including initiatives from the Startup Stiwdio and Enterprise teams, which provides graduates with essential skills, funding, advice, and support for business growth. The University also receives crucial ongoing support from Medr and the Welsh Government in enabling the delivery of support programmes for aspiring startups and freelancers.
Dan McCadden, USW graduate and founder of 66Days Film, said: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support I have received from USW. They believed in the vision for ’66 Days’ right from the start, providing the crucial funding, equipment, and support needed. Now, I have international clients, filming documentaries and content across the world, all thanks to USW.”
This continued recognition demonstrates USW’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs and contributing to growth of the South Wales economy and more widely across the UK.
