Small business support and startup funding have become recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually since 2019. This topic intersects with government regulations on online banks and broader economic policies, making it highly relevant for test-takers.
Government financial support for startups discussion in IELTS writing
Let’s analyze a recent IELTS task 2 question that exemplifies this topic:
Some people believe that governments should provide financial support to help new businesses start and grow. Others think that business owners should be responsible for their own funding. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Essay Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for and against government funding of startups
- Present a balanced analysis of both perspectives
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Similar to discussions about should governments support renewable energy startups, this topic requires careful consideration of public resource allocation.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The question of whether governments should financially support new businesses has generated considerable debate. While some advocate for state assistance, others maintain that entrepreneurs should secure their own funding. I believe a balanced approach combining both limited government support and private funding is most beneficial.
Those supporting government assistance argue that startup funding can stimulate economic growth and innovation. When governments provide initial capital or grants, more entrepreneurs can transform their ideas into viable businesses, creating jobs and contributing to economic development. For instance, Singapore’s startup ecosystem flourished partly due to government initiatives like the Startup SG Founder program, which provides mentorship and funding to new entrepreneurs.
However, opponents contend that business owners should be solely responsible for their ventures’ funding. This view suggests that entrepreneurs who secure their own capital through private investors or loans are more likely to operate efficiently and make prudent business decisions. Additionally, relying on private funding ensures that market forces naturally select the most promising business ideas, leading to higher success rates.
In my opinion, a hybrid approach would be most effective. Governments should offer targeted support through incubator programs, matching funds, and tax incentives, while still requiring entrepreneurs to demonstrate commitment through personal or private investment. This strategy, similar to should governments provide financial support to small businesses, ensures responsible resource allocation while fostering innovation.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people have different opinions about whether governments should give money to new businesses. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think governments should help new businesses with money. First, it can help create more jobs when new companies start. Second, new businesses can help the country’s economy grow. For example, when the government gives money to technology startups, these companies can make new products and hire more workers.
On the other hand, some people believe business owners should find their own money. They think using government money is not fair to taxpayers. Also, when business owners use their own money, they are more careful about how they spend it. This is like Should governments provide financial assistance to small businesses?
I think both sides have good points, but government help is important. If governments give some money to good business ideas, it can help the whole country. However, business owners should also use some of their own money too.
Key Vocabulary
- Viable (adj) /ˈvaɪəbəl/ – capable of working successfully
- Ecosystem (n) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – a complex network or interconnected system
- Incubator program (n) /ˈɪŋkjubeɪtə ˈprəʊɡræm/ – support system for startup development
- Prudent (adj) /ˈpruːdənt/ – acting with care and thought for the future
- Hybrid approach (n) /ˈhaɪbrɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ – combining different methods or systems
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes like should governments impose strict regulations on digital data usage. Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
