The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word STARTUPS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
T
A
R
T
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S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "new businesses" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case new businesses = startups.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does STARTUPS mean?
STARTUPS noun- The act or process of starting a process or machine.
- A new company or organization or business venture designed for rapid growth.
- (chiefly in plural) A kind of high-low or thigh-high boot worn by rustic people.
- (chiefly in plural) A kind of gaiter or legging.
- One who comes suddenly into notice; an upstart.