starting a business in this climate is a risky proposition but with 18+ yrs experience should have a wealth of knowledge to survive.
I would say that the ones who are considering a new business or practice would have a general approach and be able to compete for all types of projects and not be heavily reliant on any one sector or typology.
I am still a year off my degree and all ready taking on freelancing work just to build a portfolio but might push this opportunity to start a technologist freelance service to other practices.
who ever starts a business in these troublesome times is brave and I applaud their commitment and determination as the drop in salaries in the UK makes this discapline a passion rather than a monetary career..