A quiet revolution is taking place across the accounting profession, with record numbers of AATs rejecting traditional employment in favour of establishing their own practices.
AAT’s licensed accountant population – members qualified to run their own accounting businesses – has grown by 59% over the past seven years. This includes a remarkable 755% increase in licensed members under 34 years old since 2018, growing from just 119 to 1,018. Based on current growth trends, AAT projects its licensed accountant membership to exceed 8,000 by 2030.
AAT director, Isla Billett said: “We’re seeing an increasing number of entrepreneurial individuals, particularly women, entering the profession with their sights set on autonomy, flexibility and the career potential of running their own business.”
And, contrary to some outdated perceptions of accountancy, the consistent representation of women among those choosing to establish their own accounting practices is a notable trend. In 2025, females represent 56% of AAT’s licensed accountant population.
With all this in mind, AAT has launched the accountant startup programme, developed in partnership with Sage, to support its growing number of licensed accountants through the critical first year of starting a business. Demand for the programme is already high, with more than 250 individuals on the waiting list ahead of its official launch.
The two-day course costs £350, and to find out more go to:
