Remitly conducted a global study using Angela Duckworth's ‘Grit Scale’ to reveal the world’s most entrepreneurial nations

South Africa tops the study, with an average ‘grit’ score of 46.18, followed by the UK (42.54) and Ireland (42.17)

The USA features in the top 10, ranking in sixth place globally with a score of 40.96

A new global study from Remitly, a trusted provider of digital financial services that transcend borders, has analysed the levels of grit and determination from people all around the world to officially crown the nation with the strongest entrepreneurial mindset.

In today’s interconnected world, where innovation is thriving and the opportunities to start something for yourself are bountiful, understanding how different cultures approach entrepreneurship is more important than ever. For those hoping to move to a new country, where they can collaborate with the world’s leading businesses, gaining insight into what drives ambition across the world is essential.

How the study worked

More than 7,000 respondents from 26 countries were asked a series of questions from the “Grit Scale”, developed by Angela Duckworth, to ascertain how passionate and persevering they were. Having a higher “Grit Score” suggests someone has a higher tendency to stick to goals, even when things might get difficult, while having a lower score might indicate there is a greater likelihood to give up easily when things get tough.

The cumulative scores provide a comprehensive picture of a nation's overall “grit” profile; the higher the score, the more passionate and persevering the nation was, the stronger its entrepreneurial mindset is likely to be.

Leading Nations: A Closer Look at the World’s Most Entrepreneurial Mindsets

Claiming the top spot is South Africa, who scored an impressive 46.18 out of a possible 60. With fast growing business hubs in Cape Town and Johannesburg where technology and start-up ecosystems are thriving, they’re a nation known for being resourceful, determined and eager to innovate.

Following in second is the United Kingdom (42.54), a nation known for its strong heritage of innovation, from the industrial revolution to modern fintech breakthroughs. British entrepreneurs demonstrate a quiet tenacity and focus that underpins long-term success.

In third is Ireland with a score of 42.17, a country whose entrepreneurial ecosystem has rapidly evolved in recent years. From rural innovators to Dublin-based startups, Ireland’s high grit score reflects a cultural pride in pushing forward and finding creative solutions.

With a surge in digital infrastructure and a culture that encourages education and ambition, India (42.06) ranks in fourth place followed by Spain (41.13), with a new generation of entrepreneurs carving out success in sectors including green energy, tourism and technology.

The United States ranks in sixth (40.96), and whilst they don’t top the list they have long been seen as the leader in entrepreneurship, thanks to the scale and diversity seen across its states. From Silicon Valley’s tech giants to international financial leaders, the U.S. is home to countless success stories of individuals chasing their dreams.

The world’s most entrepreneurially-minded nations

Ryan Riley, VP of Marketing for EMEA and APAC at Remitly, commented:

“Entrepreneurship often begins with having the right mindset, as you need grit, determination and the belief that you can create something better, even when the odds are against you. When challenges arise, it’s having that unshakable mindset that helps see you through.

Our research highlights the strength of the entrepreneurial mindset across different cultures, from the resourcefulness of South African entrepreneurs to the quiet resolve found in the UK and Ireland. It’s fascinating to see how mindset varies even within a single country, as shown by the contrasting state-by-state scores in the US.

While having the right mindset can’t guarantee success, it can lay the foundation. Whether you're starting a side hustle or scaling a business, that inner drive can be the difference between an idea and a legacy.”

For more information on the world’s most entrepreneurial nations please visit: https://www.remitly.com/us/en/landing/countries-with-strongest-entrepreneurial-mindset

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