Tech-Savvy at 60: The Rise of the Midlife Entrepreneur

By Elizabeth Ndungu

They say life begins at 40. But for many, real momentum happens at 50 and beyond.

Across the world, adults over 50 are starting businesses more than ever before. In the U.S., nearly 1 in 4 new entrepreneurs is aged 55 to 64 (Forbes). In Europe, the numbers have nearly doubled since 1996 (WISE Learn). And success? It’s even more likely. Research shows that founders in their 50s and 60s outperform their younger counterparts (MIT Sloan via WSJ).

So what is their secret? Experience, resilience, and a strong sense of “I’m finally doing this for me.”

Let’s explore what’s behind this surge and how technology plays a vital role in turning great ideas into thriving businesses.

 

🎯 Why the Over-50 Crowd Is Thriving in Business

This age group brings many advantages to the table.

• They have wisdom. After decades in the workforce, older entrepreneurs know their industries and how to navigate challenges.

• They’re focused and intentional. With fewer distractions and more clarity, their business decisions tend to be more grounded.

• They’re resilient. Life changes such as downsizing or early retirement give them time and drive to pursue their passions.

• They’re resourceful. Downsizing, early retirement, or empty nesting often gives them time and headspace to finally pursue that dream business (The Times UK).

🧠 The Technology Hurdle

Even the most skilled business owner can run into challenges when it comes to tech. Today’s marketplace runs on digital tools. Smartphones, websites, email marketing, and social media all play major roles.

Yet only 61 percent of adults over 65 own smartphones (Pew Research Center). Social media use in this group is still under 50 percent.

Social media use for those 65 and older is only 45 percent, though up from just 11 percent in 2010 (Science Direct, 2022).

The good news? Many older adults are excited to learn. They just need the right support and encouragement.

This tech gap is real, but so is the hunger to learn.

 

💡 The Digital Glow-Up: Learning Tech Later in Life

At 83, she walked into our first session with a radiant smile and a clear goal.

“I’m passionate about staying healthy and helping my community stay healthy. So I want to recommend plants to use, foods to eat, and supplements to keep walking tall at 83.”

She had the knowledge and heart. She just needed the tools. So we got to work.

Now confident she opens her computer, practices typing every day, and saves bookmarks like a pro. She screenshots supplements and sends them to friends on WhatsApp with helpful tips. She watches YouTube and TikTok reels to study how others share health advice. Recently she started filming herself as practice for posting on YouTube and creating Tik Toks, she is really excited.

It is amazing to see her use a catchphrase on living healthy — its pretty awesome.

Her journey is not just about learning apps. It is about confidence, connection, and stepping boldly into the digital marketplace.

 

📲 Why Tech Training Is Key for Business Success

Learning technology brings powerful benefits for entrepreneurs at any stage in life.

• Better visibility. Social media and websites help reach more people.
• Stronger credibility. A clean online presence builds trust.
• Higher efficiency. Tools like Zoom and Canva save time and energy.
• More meaningful connections. Sharing stories online builds loyal communities.

Older adults who embrace digital tools can reach audiences far beyond their neighborhood. They turn knowledge into influence, and passion into income.

More seniors are gaining confidence by learning tech in a patient fun environment. They reach out to businesses such as Ndungu Consulting and private Tutoring companies such as Varsity Tutors and Tutor.com.

☕ Easy Ways to Start Learning Tech

Tech training does not have to be complicated. Here are a few ways older adults can ease into it:

• Coffee-and-clicks workshops where learners explore tools in a relaxed setting
• One-on-one coaching that focuses on real-life tasks and pacing
• Video tutorials that can be watched, paused, and rewatched as needed

Every small win builds confidence. With the right learning approach, anyone can master the basics and go further than they imagined.

🔍 Final Take: Experience Plus Tech Equals Impact

The rise in entrepreneurship among older adults is not just a trend. It is a movement. This generation brings purpose, patience, and a wealth of wisdom to everything they do.

When paired with digital skills, the results can be incredible. Whether you are 52 or 83 like Mama Grace, you can build something meaningful, share their expertise, and inspire others.

Your next chapter might begin with a simple click. Open your inbox, post your first video, or send that newsletter. The world is waiting to hear your voice.