Opinion: Light Entrepreneurship enables employment for diverse groups

A recent study by the Finnish Centre for Pensions (ETK) reported that light entrepreneurship has been on the rise over the past five years. During this period, the number of light entrepreneurs has nearly tripled, with many being born abroad or older individuals. The news gave the impression that light entrepreneurship is a problem. However, light entrepreneurship has many positive impacts on both individuals and society that should not be overlooked.

In our research, we have found that light entrepreneurship offers a flexible and accessible way to earn income and become part of a work community. This is particularly important for those who may face challenges in the traditional job market. For example, for people born abroad or older individuals, light entrepreneurship is often the only opportunity to enter the workforce, develop their skills, and increase their income. Without this opportunity, many would rely on social benefits and remain outside the work community, which has been shown to increase the risk of social exclusion. We are proud to be able to facilitate such opportunities!

According to ETK’s Sten-Gahmberg, the livelihood of older and foreign-born light entrepreneurs often significantly depends on light entrepreneurship. This is not a weakness but a demonstration of how light entrepreneurship serves as a vital source of income and livelihood, providing financial security and social inclusion.

In our opinion, it is clear that the social security and pension benefits for light entrepreneurs need to be developed to better match the current forms of employment. This cannot be ignored if we are to ensure that light entrepreneurs receive the support network they deserve and can sustainably build their future. It is essential to recognize the role of light entrepreneurship in bridging different forms of work.

Light entrepreneurship is not just a source of income; it is also an opportunity to participate, develop, and feel a sense of belonging to a community. This makes it a valuable form of work that should be supported and developed, not underestimated.

Joonas Tuompo
Founder and CEO, FREE-Laskutus Oy

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