Older Americans Over 55 Turn to Entrepreneurship as 1 in 6 Find New Training Options
Updated
Updated · AARP · Sep 14
Older Americans Over 55 Turn to Entrepreneurship as 1 in 6 Find New Training Options
2 articles · Updated · AARP · Sep 14
Summary
Nearly 1 in 6 Americans over 55 still in the workforce are established entrepreneurs, with experts saying older founders are increasingly succeeding by leveraging experience, savings and professional networks.
New support options are widening that path, from Arizona State University’s fellowship for people 55 and older to community-college certificates, SCORE mentoring, and AARP’s Work for Yourself@50+ resources.
Costs range from free webinars, volunteer counseling and AI tutorials to pricier programs such as ASU’s $20,000 yearlong fellowship, which includes courses, faculty mentors and investor pitching help.
Automation, layoffs and frustration with corporate work are pushing some older workers to create their own jobs, while others use self-employment to pursue delayed ambitions or second careers.
AI tools, YouTube lessons and subsidized financing are lowering barriers further, with AARP’s AI course free through Jan. 1, 2027 and federal-linked programs offering consulting, loans and grants.