Australia’s next wave of startups could be from the over-55s

Senior entrepreneurs are Australia’s fastest-growing segment of entrepreneurs, despite facing significant barriers including ageism and a lack of financial support, according to new research from the Swinburne University of Technology and Queensland University of Technology.

The research, funded by National Seniors Australia, studied more than 400 seniors through interviews, focus groups and online surveys. Key findings include:
•34% of all young firms in Australia are now led by seniorpreneurs
•The average age of seniorpreneurs is 57
•Seniorpreneurs work about five fewer hours than younger entrepreneurs each week and have almost double the industry experience.

Read more

Alex Maritz The Conversation 16 Sep 2015