The number of over-50s seeking advice on starting a business with Bristol support organisation BRAVE Enterprise has more than doubled over the past year.
The not-for-profit body helps hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs every year and has assisted many thousands more launch new ventures since the 1980s.
Last year more than 20% of those seeking help from BRAVE were aged 50 or over – more than ever before. This compares with around 10% in 2014.
BRAVE director Liz Sands, pictured, said a number of factors were behind the entrepreneurial boom in this age group – so-called Oldtrepreneurs. 
“People over 50 have built up valuable skills and experience but often face discrimination in the jobs market,” she said.
“So they are deciding to put that experience to good use and start their own business.
“The New Enterprise Allowance scheme, which provides aspiring entrepreneurs with financial support and a mentor, has proved particularly popular with this age group, especially those who have found themselves out of work following the recession.”
Growing life expectancy and greater pension freedoms, which allow the over-55s to spend their pension pots how they want, have also encouraged more older people to take the plunge and start a business, she said.
“They are living proof that it’s never too late to turn the dream of running your own business into a reality.”
For more information about BRAVE’s business support services and the New Enterprise Allowance visit www.brave.org.uk/startup or phone 0117 944 5330.
