Starting a business is a thrilling but daunting venture.
The country you choose can make all the difference—from how quickly you can get your business off the ground to the resources available for growth.
Entrepreneurs who have been through the grind know that some countries simply offer better environments for business success.
Whether it’s low corporate taxes, access to talent, or startup-friendly policies, certain locations stand out.
If you’re looking for the best places in the world to launch your business, here are five countries that successful entrepreneurs keep coming back to.
1. New Zealand
New Zealand consistently ranks as one of the easiest places in the world to start a business.
The World Bank has repeatedly recognized it as the number one country for ease of doing business, thanks to its simple online registration process, low corruption levels, and strong legal protections for entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurs love New Zealand for its streamlined regulatory environment, which allows businesses to be set up in just a few hours.
The country also has a thriving startup ecosystem, with government grants, angel investors, and venture capital firms actively supporting new businesses.
The lifestyle is another big plus—New Zealand offers a high quality of life, a strong work-life balance, and access to a skilled, English-speaking workforce.
The main downside? New Zealand’s relatively small market size means that businesses looking for rapid scaling may need to expand internationally sooner rather than later.
However, for those seeking a business-friendly environment with a fantastic lifestyle, New Zealand is a top choice.
2. Singapore
If you want efficiency and a business-friendly regulatory environment, Singapore is hard to beat.
This small but mighty city-state consistently ranks as one of the easiest places to do business, thanks to its streamlined bureaucracy and low corporate taxes.
Entrepreneurs love Singapore for its strong infrastructure, excellent connectivity to the rest of Asia, and government support for startups.
The country has a thriving startup ecosystem, with initiatives like Startup SG providing grants, mentorship, and tax incentives.
According to the World Bank, Singapore ranks among the top countries for ease of doing business, and its political stability makes it a safe bet for entrepreneurs looking for long-term growth.
The only downside is that Singapore is expensive. Office space and living costs can be high, but if you have the funding, it’s one of the best places to launch a business in Asia.
3. Canada
Canada is often overshadowed by its southern neighbor, but savvy entrepreneurs know it’s a fantastic place to start and scale a business.
With strong economic stability, a highly educated workforce, and government incentives for startups, Canada has become a top destination for business founders.
One of Canada’s biggest draws is its immigration policies.
Programs like the Startup Visa make it easy for entrepreneurs to move to Canada and build their businesses there.
The country also boasts lower business costs compared to the U.S., and major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are home to thriving tech and startup ecosystems.
The main challenge? Canada’s market size is smaller compared to the U.S., which means that businesses may need to expand internationally sooner.
But for those looking for a stable and supportive business environment, Canada is an excellent choice.
4. Estonia
Estonia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about starting a business, but for digital entrepreneurs, it’s a game-changer.
This small European country has positioned itself as a global leader in digital business, offering the world’s first e-Residency program that allows entrepreneurs to start and manage an EU-based business entirely online.
Estonia’s tax system is another major plus. Businesses pay 0% corporate tax on reinvested profits, which encourages growth and reinvestment.
The country is also known for its cutting-edge digital infrastructure, making it incredibly easy to register and run a business from anywhere in the world.
The main drawback is that just like New Zealand, Estonia’s domestic market is small, so businesses looking to scale quickly will need to expand beyond the country’s borders.
But for digital nomads and tech entrepreneurs, Estonia offers an unparalleled business environment.
5. United Arab Emirates
The UAE, particularly Dubai, has rapidly become one of the world’s best places to start a business.
With tax-free zones, access to global markets, and a government that actively supports entrepreneurs, it’s no wonder that startups are flocking to the UAE.
One of the biggest perks of doing business in the UAE is the absence of personal and corporate income taxes in many free zones.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer world-class infrastructure, a strategic location for international trade, and an increasing number of investors looking to fund startups in sectors like fintech, AI, and e-commerce.
That said, setting up a business in the UAE can be costly, and navigating the local regulations can be complex for newcomers.
But for entrepreneurs with global ambitions, the UAE offers a thriving ecosystem with massive growth potential.
Wrapping things up, but it’s still a big deal…
Choosing the right country to start your business isn’t just about taxes or ease of registration. It’s about finding a place where you can thrive, scale, and tap into the right markets.
If you’re looking for a business-friendly environment with great work-life balance, New Zealand might be your best bet.
If you want efficiency and government-backed support, Singapore is a solid choice.
Canada offers stability and an easier path for immigrant entrepreneurs, while Estonia is revolutionizing the way we think about digital business.
And for those aiming to expand into global markets, the UAE offers an exciting launchpad with plenty of opportunities.
No matter where you decide to start your business, make sure to research local regulations, understand the cultural landscape, and choose a location that aligns with your long-term vision.
The right environment can make all the difference between struggling and thriving.
Until next time, friends.
Feeling stuck in self-doubt?
Stop trying to fix yourself and start embracing who you are. Join the free 7-day self-discovery challenge and learn how to transform negative emotions into personal growth.
