According to data from online graphic design marketplace 99designs, cryptocurrency, Cannabis, VR and Alternative Travel are among the hottest emerging industries for startup entrepreneurs in 2018.
Figures based on the increased number of projects launched on 99designs’ marketplace show the growth of the following industries:
(1) Cryptocurrency businesses. Bitcoin has been all over the news, drawing in increasing attention to the cryptocurrency industry in general. Projects with the term “cryptocurrency” have risen 458% increase since 2015 – a 821% increase over the last four years.
Globally, New York and San Francisco were the top two cities for cryptocurrency startups, with London the third most popular city.
Within Europe, Berlin (2nd) and Paris (3rd) trailed London in terms of the number of the number of cryptocurrency startups.
(2) Cannabis businesses. Whether for recreational or strictly medical use, marijuana is now legal in more than half of US states. Projects with terms “cannabis” or “marijuana” in the title increased 55% in the past two years (and 833% since 2013!).
Unsurprisingly, US cities dominate the global table with Los Angeles, Portland and Denver the three most popular venues for cannabis startups. However, two Canadian cities – Vancouver (9th) and Toronto (10th) – also made it into the top 10.
(3) Virtual Reality startups. In 2018, VR becomes more “reality” than “virtual,” with many new players entering the game. Projects with the terms “augmented reality” or “virtual reality” were up by 38% over 2015 (and up by 514% since 2013).
Globally San Francisco, Los Angeles and London were the most popular cities for VR startups. Within Europe, Zurich (2nd) and Berlin (3rd) trailed London in terms of the number of the number of cryptocurrency start-ups while Leeds came in a respectable 6th place.
(4) Alternative travel businesses. Projects with the terms “boutique hotel,” “airbnb,” “van rental” and “camper van” increased by 27% in the past two years and are up by 211% since 2013. Globally San Francisco, Austin and London were the most popular cities for alternative travel startups.
Within Europe, London again tops the list, followed by Berlin (2nd) and Paris (3rd) while Bristol was the fifth most popular European city.