Startup Europe — The Sifted Podcast How to stop the UK startup exodus, with entrepreneur and government advisor Alex Depledge
Nov 13, 2025
In a lively discussion, Alex Depledge, a serial entrepreneur and advisor to UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, tackles the urgent issues facing the UK's tech sector. She highlights the troubling trend of startup talent leaving the UK and discusses potential strategies to boost late-stage capital, including leveraging pension funds. Alex emphasizes the need for government to engage directly with founders and offers insights on how to rectify the capital gaps that hinder scale-ups. Her sharp observations on regulations and the importance of fostering innovation light the way for a thriving startup ecosystem.
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From Founder To Number 11 Life
- Depledge describes adapting to life in Number 11 with wardrobe and Outlook struggles.
- She contrasts civil service competence with her personal tech frustrations.
Scale-Ups Require Their Own Policy Frame
- Depledge argues policy treats startups like SMEs or corporates, which doesn't work for scale-ups.
- She says targeted scale-up policies are needed to unlock outsized economic returns.
Founders Leaving Drains The Ecosystem
- She warns 50% of VC-backed companies left the UK in the last decade, exporting exits and talent.
- Losing early employees removes the local 'training ground' that builds future founders.