Who says entrepreneurs have to start young? These owners waited until their 60s, 70s or even 80s to first launch a business.
Lucille Green's life took a pause when she lost her husband to cancer. "I floundered, not quite knowing what to do next with my life," she said.
In 2002, a friend suggested she keep herself busy by becoming a franchisee of Visiting Angels, a provider of in-home care for the elderly. She was open to the idea because it was a business that helped people, which was important to her. At 71, Green became the system's oldest franchisee. Today, her business provides home caregivers to 81 elderly clients.
Green, who is legally blind, uses two magnifying reading machines to read documents. She also hired someone to help with reading and paperwork. Green is determined to be actively engaged in her company. "I still go into the office three times a week," she said. "Age will not hinder me."