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National Small Business Week, June 17-21, will feature dozens of successful small businesses from across the country, including entrepreneurs who started their business after age 50.
This year marks 50 years of National Small Business Week, and is fitting to highlight the thriving small business owners over the age of 50 who help drive the economy and create jobs. The businesses range from a baker of Artisan breads to a helicopter pilot school, and from a maker of skincare and cosmetic products to an aerospace design firm.
The U.S. Small Business Administration will honor these businesses and the more than 100 outstanding business owners in Washington, D.C., on June 21 for their achievements. The week will culminate with the announcement of the National Small Business Person of the Year.
For more than 70 million Americans over 50, business ownership is a practical option. It can be a second career or a chance to leverage life experiences into an interesting and financially practical “encore” career. One in four individuals ages 44 to 70 is interested in becoming an entrepreneur and 63 percent of Americans plan to work during retirement.
One such business owner is Steve Miller of Boynton Beach, Fla., this year’s Florida Small Business Person of the Year. After a 33-year career in the medical profession as a registered nurse, Miller was ready to dive head first into full-time small business ownership.
Miller received some advice and direction from a business development program through south Florida’s SCORE network. “Herb Douglas was my business mentor and his guidance and input was crucial,” said Miller. “Small business capital was not my concern as working out of the home minimized costs but I don’t think I would be where I am now without Herb’s mentorship and input from the great staff at SCORE.
Miller’s background provided him with an in-depth knowledge of the use of hospital devices, and in 2003, he founded EPreward, Inc., to provide precious metals recovery services to cardiology departments and medical offices. Today, EPreward employs 10 full-time employees and had revenues of more than $2.8 million in 2012.
Small businesses are welcome to attend National Small Business Week events.
Participants can register online until June 12.
CeceliaT is a moderator for the SBA Community. We appreciate your participation and feedback on how we can continually improve the community to meet your small business needs.
Tags: Official SBA News and Views, Open For Business, SBA News and Views