Becoming an entrepreneur can happen at any age. While society often celebrates young entrepreneurial success stories, there is a remarkable and inspiring group of individuals who prove that it’s never too late to start a business. These seasoned individuals have either continued to innovate well past conventional retirement age or have launched new ventures, demonstrating passion and perseverance.
This article highlights ten of the world’s oldest entrepreneurs, exploring their unique journeys and the businesses they have built or maintained into their later years.
Oldest Entrepreneurs Around the World
1. Colonel Harland Sanders (Founder of KFC)
Colonel Harland Sanders, famously known as the face of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), didn’t franchise his iconic chicken recipe until he was 62 years old. Having faced numerous jobs and careers throughout his life, he finally struck gold with his secret mix of herbs and spices.
Colonel Sanders’ ability to persevere through various failures and eventually create a fast-food empire is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. His image is now iconic, and KFC is a symbol of entrepreneurial possibility regardless of age.
2. Momofuku Ando (Inventor of Instant Ramen)
At the age of 48, Momofuku Ando invented instant ramen, revolutionizing quick and affordable meals for people worldwide. He founded Nissin Food Products Co., Ltd., and changed global eating habits with his invention of Chicken Ramen in 1958.
This innovation was followed by the creation of the first Cup Noodles in 1971. Ando continued to work and innovate in his field until his death at the age of 96, showing that age is no barrier to culinary innovation and business success.
3. Fauja Singh (Brand Ambassador for Adidas)
Becoming an entrepreneur doesn’t always mean starting from scratch; it can also mean becoming the face of a brand. Fauja Singh gained international fame as a centenarian marathon runner and subsequently became a brand ambassador for Adidas at the age of 93.
As a model and spokesperson, Singh challenges common perceptions of aging and fitness. His role with Adidas exemplifies how personal branding and influence can continue to grow and remain relevant regardless of one’s age.
4. Ray Kroc (Took McDonald’s to new heights)
Ray Kroc joined McDonald’s when he was 52 years old and transformed it from a single restaurant into the world’s leading fast-food chain. He was a visionary who recognized the potential in the McDonald brothers’ restaurant concept and expanded it nationally and ultimately internationally.
Kroc’s belief in the power of franchising changed the landscape of the fast-food industry. His work ethic and determination have given entrepreneurs around the world a blueprint for scaling a business in later life.
5. Wally Blume (Founder of Denali Flavors)
Wally Blume founded Denali Flavors, a leading ice cream flavoring company, at the age of 57 after a long career in the dairy industry. Blume’s Moose Tracks flavor has become one of the most successful licenced ice cream flavors in the United States.
His decision to start his own business came from his belief in his innovative ideas for the ice cream industry.
Entrepreneurs like Blume show that industry knowledge accumulated over time can pave the way for successful ventures later in life.
6. Taikichiro Mori (Real estate tycoon)
Before becoming a real estate mogul, Taikichiro Mori was a professor of economics. It wasn’t until the age of 55 that he entered the real estate business and later founded Mori Building Company. At one point, he was the richest person in the world, with a reputation for transforming Tokyo’s skyline.
Mori’s story is a powerful reminder that it is possible to step into entrepreneurship later in life and reach unparalleled heights.
7. Laura Ingalls Wilder (Author of the “Little House” series)
While she is not your traditional entrepreneur, Laura Ingalls Wilder turned her life story into a successful business venture by writing the “Little House” books, starting in her 60’s. These books became a cultural phenomenon and created a legacy brand that spawned multiple TV shows, merchandise, and even a tourist industry.
Her narrative talents and persistence to get published have inspired many to never give up on their creative dreams. Wilder shows that personal experiences can be transformed into a successful business at any age.
8. Harry Bernstein (Author)
At the age of 96, Harry Bernstein achieved critical acclaim as an author with the publication of his memoir, “The Invisible Wall.” Bernstein’s writing career spanned nearly a century, but it wasn’t until after his wife’s death that his work reached a public audience. His success is a reminder that personal fulfillment and contributions to literature can come at any point in one’s life.
Bernstein’s late recognition demonstrates that it’s never too late to share one’s life stories with the world.
9. Frank McCourt (Author of “Angela’s Ashes”)
Frank McCourt became a best-selling author at the age of 66 with the publication of his memoir, “Angela’s Ashes.” Before this, McCourt had a long career as a teacher in New York City. His success as an author came after he retired from teaching and decided to put his storytelling abilities to paper.
McCourt’s journey is an excellent example of how life experiences can be channeled into entrepreneurial achievement in one’s later years.
10. Charles Flint (Founder of IBM)
Charles Flint was 61 years old when he facilitated the merger of four companies to create what would eventually become International Business Machines, or IBM. A business mastermind, Flint was known as the father of trusts, demonstrating his prowess in business consolidation.
His vision set the foundation for one of the largest tech companies in the world. Flint exemplifies how experience and strategic thinking can lead to monumental business achievements at any age.
FAQs
What motivates older individuals to become entrepreneurs?
Many older individuals turn to entrepreneurship to fulfill a lifelong passion, capitalize on their extensive industry experience, or even as a response to ageism in the job market. They often have a wealth of knowledge, a robust network, and financial resources that can facilitate the start and growth of a new business.
Is there a right age to become an entrepreneur?
There is no “right” age to become an entrepreneur. While young entrepreneurs might benefit from being more risk-tolerant and tech-savvy, older entrepreneurs bring experience, wisdom, and more developed soft skills to the table. Success as an entrepreneur can be achieved at any stage in life.
What are the advantages of starting a business later in life?
Starting a business later in life offers several advantages: a vast network of professional contacts, substantial industry knowledge, and often a more stable financial footing.
Many older entrepreneurs also have a clearer understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and can use their lived experiences to inform business decisions.
Can older entrepreneurs be as successful as younger ones?
Yes, older entrepreneurs can be as successful as, if not more successful than, younger ones. Success depends on the business idea, execution, and market conditions, rather than the age of the entrepreneur.
Are there any support networks or communities for older entrepreneurs?
There are numerous support networks and communities for older entrepreneurs, including organizations such as the AARP Foundation, the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship, and SCORE, which provide resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of older business owners.
Conclusion
The narratives of the oldest entrepreneurs in the world serve as powerful reminders that it is never too late to chase your entrepreneurial dreams. They exemplify that age can be an asset, full of wisdom, resilience, and experience. From fast food to technology giants, these ten entrepreneurs have made an indelible mark on their respective industries and the world at large. Their stories encourage aspiring entrepreneurs of all ages to pursue their passions and to remember that success is not constrained by age. Whether you’re taking the first steps or continuing a lifelong journey, entrepreneurship is open to all who dare to dream and act upon those dreams.
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