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Jewish Roots in Business

While Jewish people make up just 0.5% of the UK population, our community is much more likely to be self-employed or work in professional roles than other groups. In fact the 2021 UK Census found that 17% of Jewish people are self-employed compared to a national average of 11%. That equates to nearly 50,000 Jewish business owners across the UK—a significant community with unique needs and strengths.

 

Most of us have come across harmful stereotypes about Jews in business – but there’s a deeper story behind these numbers.

 

Historically, Jewish people didn’t choose to go into business or work independently as part of a larger plan; rather, it was often the only viable option. Many faced barriers to employment due to discrimination and our own families can tell stories of the challenges our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents faced. In a time when a Jewish surname alone could make it impossible to find employment, the only way for many Jews to earn a living was to become self-employed.

 

This history has shaped who we are today. Jewish business ownership didn’t emerge from privilege or power; it arose from necessity. Forced to find ways to support themselves and their families, our ancestors became entrepreneurs, creating opportunities where others had closed doors. Today, the Jewish Business Network honours that legacy and provides a safe space where Jewish professionals and business owners can connect and thrive—proudly, without having to hide who we are.

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