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Is It Too Late to Start a Business When You Are Over 50?


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Absolutely not!


In fact, more women over 50 are starting businesses now than ever before. According to Enterprise Nation, over 51% of new businesses in the UK are started by women over 50 - and that number is growing.


We’re not clinging to outdated jobs or apologising for our age. We’re redefining success on our own terms and bringing decades of wisdom, creativity, and grit into businesses that feel good, do good, and work.


I should know. I’m one of them.


Why So Many Women Are Starting Businesses Over 50 or Later in Life

This isn’t just a trend - it’s a shift in priorities. For many of us, it follows a life-changing event: redundancy, divorce, illness, burnout, or simply the urge to finally do something for ourselves.

At 50+, the lens changes. We’re not chasing status or job titles. We’re choosing work that fits our life, not the other way around. And we’re drawing on a lifetime of skills - career experience, emotional intelligence, resilience - to build businesses with substance.


Some go all in with consultancies, coaching, or eCommerce. Others start side hustles - creative, wellness, handmade, or tech-based. Either way, the drive is the same: freedom, fulfilment, and visibility.



Work-Life Balance Means Something Different Now

We’re not trying to hustle harder. We’re trying to breathe.


Most women I speak to want their business to support the way they live - not drain them. They want time for themselves, for their health, for family. They want meaningful work that feels energising and worthwhile.


That’s the new work-life balance. And for many, starting a business makes it possible.


What We’re Up Against

Let’s be honest: the world still carries outdated ideas about what women “of a certain age” are capable of.


Trying to re-enter the corporate world in my 50s? It felt shameful. Like my age was something to hide. Redundancy later in life can be soul-destroying - I’ve felt that first-hand. There’s a sense of invisibility, of being quietly pushed to the margins.


And even when we do start something of our own, the digital world isn’t exactly built for us. Tech can feel overwhelming, design tools confusing, and marketing advice... well, exhausting.

But here’s the truth: we’re not the problem. The systems, the stereotypes, the tech-first-no-support approach? That’s what needs to change.




My Story: Building Something Better

After my redundancy in 2018, I tried freelancing. Dipped a toe into various roles. Felt the pressure to replace a senior-level income (especially from nearest and dearest), to bounce back quickly. But the confidence wasn’t there.


It was a slow burn. And I’m glad it was.


Because it gave me time to reflect - to figure out what I wanted to build, and who I wanted to serve.


I didn’t want to start just another agency. I wanted to build my happy place. A business rooted in purpose. One that gave me the freedom to work how I wanted, using everything I’d learned. One that let me lean into the creative, strategic, tech-savvy side of me that still gets excited about websites, structure, and clever digital tools.


And most of all? I wanted to help other women like me - who are full of passion and experience, but often feel invisible or overwhelmed online.


That’s how Kingstown Web Studio was born.


Taking a Stand—Proudly

This business is more than a service. It’s a stand against all the subtle messaging that tells menopausal women to step aside, slow down, or disappear quietly.


Now is our time. To be seen. To build something brilliant. To take up space. To stop apologising - and start thriving.


I work with women over 50 who are ready to launch or grow their business but need a helping hand getting it out there. A website that reflects who they really are. Marketing support that doesn’t confuse or condescend. Clear, human, empowering support - without the jargon or overwhelm.


So, Is It Too Late?

Not even close.

Your age is not a barrier - it’s a strength. It’s a badge of honour. Your experience is your brand. And there’s an audience out there who needs what you’ve got.


So if you’ve been wondering if it’s too late to start something new, to step into your next chapter, to show the world what you’re made of…


Here’s your answer:


No. It’s exactly the right time.

And if you want a partner who "gets it", who’s walked the same path, and who’s here to make your business shine - I’m right here.


Let’s build YOUR happy place, together.


A joyful group hug between women over 50, smiling and embracing—symbolising community, empowerment, and building a happy, supportive business space.

TL:DR (Too long; didn't read summary)

Starting a business over 50 isn’t too late—it’s often the perfect time.

Women over 50 now start more than half of new UK businesses.

This blog explores why, what kinds of businesses they’re building,

and how to overcome barriers with confidence.

FAQs

Is it really possible to start a business after 50

Yes, absolutely. In fact, over 51% of new UK businesses are started by women over 50—experience is a real asset.

What kind of businesses do women over 50 typically start?

Everything from coaching and wellness to creative services, handmade products, consultancies, and passion-led side hustles.

I feel behind on tech—can I still run a business online?

Yes. With the right support, you can feel confident using tech tools—or have someone take care of it for you.

Isn’t it too late to make a business “work” at this stage of life?

Not at all. Many women find this is actually the ideal time—less pressure, more clarity, and a desire to work on their own terms.

What if I’m not sure what I want to offer yet?

That’s completely normal. Many women start by exploring an idea, interest, or skill—and grow from there.


Glossary

AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation): A modern approach to making your content easier for search engines—and voice assistants—to understand and deliver as direct answers.

Brand: How people perceive your business. It includes your tone, visuals, values, and the emotional connection people feel when they interact with you.

Confidence Gap: The common feeling—especially in midlife—that you’re not “qualified” enough to start something new, even when you’ve got decades of experience.

Credibility: The sense of trust, professionalism, and authority your business projects—often boosted by a polished website and consistent messaging.

Digital Presence: Your visibility online—including your website, social media, business listings, and anywhere people can find and connect with you.

Freemium: A free resource or product given away to build trust, grow an audience, and offer value upfront (like a downloadable guide).

Menopausal Stereotypes: Outdated and often limiting ideas about what women in midlife can or should be doing - especially around work and visibility.


Additional Resources Worth Checking Out

Podcasts

  • Women in the Middle® Entrepreneurs: The Reality of Running a Business After 50Hosted by Suzy Rosenstein, this podcast delves into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by midlife women entrepreneurs, offering candid conversations and practical advice. Listen here​Apple Podcasts+1suzyrosenstein.com+1

  • She Means Profit: Starting a Business in Your 40s and 50sThis episode explores why many Gen X women are embracing entrepreneurship later in life, discussing reinvention, financial independence, and personal fulfillment. Listen here​Apple Podcasts

  • Confessions of a Female Founder Hosted by Meghan Markle, this upcoming podcast promises candid conversations with female entrepreneurs, sharing their journeys, challenges, and successes. Read more​Vanity Fair+3New York Post+3Page Six+3


TED Talks

  • Ali Miles-Jenkins: The Surprising Truth About Women Over 50Ali discusses the untapped potential and opportunities for women over 50, challenging societal stereotypes and encouraging entrepreneurship. Watch here​


Articles

  • Starting a Business: Entrepreneurship for Women Over 50 Lisa Masiello offers insights on how women over 50 can embark on entrepreneurial ventures, discussing opportunities and essential skills for success. Read here​Lisa Masiello

I Was Already Retired When I Broke My Foot. That Injury Led Me to the Career of My Dreams. An inspiring story of a woman who reinvented her career in her late 50s, demonstrating that it's never too late to pursue new passions.  Read here ​Business Insider





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