The study of more than 700 IT professionals found 86% would like to work for a start-up technology company and 58% would like to start their own technology business.
The study found the attraction of working for a smaller company was having more control in the job and a greater employee voice. However, it also found small companies could be doing more to attract IT talent; only 15% of professionals think small businesses are attracting the top talent in the industry.
In July 2013, research published by the CIPD found the UK's economic growth could be boosted if large firms adopted the entrepreneurial spirit that drives value in start-ups and small firms.
The CIPD report stated that by encouraging a culture of innovation, larger businesses could help their employees adopt entrepreneurial behaviour. The research found that although 37% of employees would welcome this, only 12% of employers encouraged and facilitated this kind of behaviour.
CWJobs director Richard Nott said: "With the Government proposing a start-up culture in the national curriculum, small companies are proving to be big business for the UK.
"New companies are blossoming across the country and aren't just constrained to the silicon roundabout. Clearly there's great appetite from professionals, so start-ups should aim high and seek out top talent to help give their business a boost."
