The next wave of digital natives are optimistic about the future and fascinated by entrepreneurship, according to the report, “Generation Z Grows Up,” released today by Universum, a global employer brand research firm. Generation Z comprises 25% of the US population and the first wave on Gen Z will enter the workforce in three years.

Among Universum’s top findings for employers:

• Optimistic spirit: This generation thinks anything is possible; 65% are hopeful about the future.
• Values at work: Nearly four in 10 fear they won’t find a job that matches their personality. This desire to be themselves and express their personality at work is critical for employers to heed.
• University alternatives: Only 15% accept the idea of foregoing university outright, but 47% say they would “maybe” consider the notion of joining the workforce instead of pursuing college/university. Investing in training and development is a new imperative for employers.
• Entrepreneurial mindset: More than half, 55%, said they are interested in starting their own company, a figure that’s even higher in emerging markets. How will large global organizations recruit and retain this start-up generation?

Universum surveyed approximately 50,000 young people, born between 1996 and 2000, across 46 countries.