A Portrait of the Older Entrepreneur: Factors Toward Transformation and Persistence

Abstract

This chapter develops a picture of older entrepreneurs, the different life paths that took them to establishing new ventures, and the various characteristics of the organizations and their founders. The author synthesizes the international literature to examine the interplay between the older entrepreneur and his or her environment. The emerging picture is intended to lead to a clearer and more complete understanding of older entrepreneurs, their characteristics, and their businesses.