The Best Business Ideas for Women Over 45

Forget the myth that entrepreneurship has an age limit—women over 45 are rewriting the business success story, and the data backs it up. 

The truth is…
Age discrimination is real. In fact, a 2022 AARP study found that 80% of workers between 40 and 65 have experienced it firsthand. And here’s the kicker: 56% of older workers were laid off or pushed out before they were ready to retire. That’s absolutely unacceptable. But here’s the good news—more women over 45 are turning the tables and starting their own businesses.

Some better news…

• GenX women are starting successful businesses in greater numbers than ever. Gen X women, represent the majority of female business owners, accounting for 51% of women-owned businesses. The same 2024 report said that a majority of women-owned businesses reported profitability this year, with 56 percent of surveyed respondents reporting positive financial outcomes. ​guidantfinancial.com

• A study by Small Business Britain found that 86% of female entrepreneurs reported increased happiness since starting their businesses. ​businesswomen.com
• A 2021 Groupon survey of over 600 women small business owners revealed that 94% are happier being their own boss, with 64% earning as much or more than they did before starting their businesses. ​investor.groupon.com
• Research indicates that 74% of female entrepreneurs enjoy greater flexibility, and nearly half have experienced a marked improvement in their work-life balance. ​startups.co.uk
  
  
• 70% of small business owners over 50 rate their happiness as 8/10 or higher. Have you ever seen happiness ratings like that in a corporate job? It’s time to give yourself the same opportunity to thrive.

Coaching, Consulting and Expert Businesses (event planning, organizing, creative services) are a perfect fit for GenX Women

In the most recent episode of The GenXpert Show I dive deep into why coaching and consulting are the best business ideas for Gen X women. If you’ve got marketable experience (and I know you do), why not turn that into income?