Celebrating Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship is often about thinking differently, pushing boundaries, and seeing opportunities where others don’t. These are precisely the traits that many neurodivergent individuals bring to the table, making them some of the most innovative and determined business leaders.

At The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, we’ve long recognised the unique strengths that neurodivergent founders bring to the business world. That’s why, in partnership with ADHD 360, we’re introducing a new category: Neurodiverse Entrepreneur of the Year. This award celebrates those who have turned their neurodivergence into an asset, shaping their businesses and industries in remarkable ways.

Phil Anderton, from ADHD 360, has seen firsthand how neurodivergence and entrepreneurship often go hand in hand. He puts it simply:

“If you can’t work for someone else and you’re struggling to fit in, you’re probably going to be an entrepreneur.”

This drive is something that resonates with many neurodivergent business owners, who often find traditional workplaces restrictive or unaccommodating. Instead of fitting into a system that wasn’t built for them, they create their own, designing businesses that work in alignment with their strengths.

Francesca James, the founder of The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, recently received an ADHD diagnosis. She describes the experience as both eye-opening and validating.

“Many entrepreneurs I know have either been diagnosed or suspect they might be. It made me realise that we definitely need to normalise these conversations and champion the strengths that can come with neurodiversity.”

The entrepreneurial journey is rarely a smooth one, and for many neurodivergent founders, the road has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. Katie Bullon, CEO of Activ Marketing, describes the relief of finally understanding herself after years of frustration.