Starting a business or scaling an existing one can be daunting at any age. For entrepreneurs over 50, it comes with unique challenges – and opportunities. That’s where the Silver Founders programme steps in, providing tailored support to help seasoned professionals turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
After a highly successful first cohort, we’re thrilled to announce that registrations are now open for the second cohort of this fully funded programme, part of BGWM Investment Readiness Programme, starting on Tuesday, 28th January 2025. Designed specifically for aspiring and established entrepreneurs over 50 in Birmingham, Solihull, and the Black Country, Silver Founders combines expert guidance, practical workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities.
A glimpse into the programme
The Silver Founders programme is no ordinary initiative. Over five weeks, participants gather for 2.5-hour weekly sessions. With the support of esteemed partners like the British Business Bank, the programme equips entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in today’s business landscape.
Whether you’re at the very beginning of your entrepreneurial journey, with just an idea you’re passionate about, or you’re already running a business and looking to take it to the next level, the Silver Founders programme has something to offer. The carefully curated workshops and expert guidance are designed to meet you where you are, helping you refine your ideas, tackle challenges, and unlock new opportunities for growth. Wherever you’re starting from, the programme provides the tools, resources, and networks to help you thrive.
The curriculum is diverse and tailored to meet the specific needs of entrepreneurs over 50. Participants explore topics such as business planning, funding options, intellectual property, and even how to harness the power of AI for business growth. Each session is designed to be both practical and inspiring, leaving attendees with actionable insights to apply directly to their ventures.
My experience at Silver Founders
Despite not being over 50 myself (yet), I had the privilege of attending the final session of the first cohort, and it was an eye-opening experience. The sense of community among the participants was inspiring. Despite coming from different industries and backgrounds, and their own businesses being at different stages, everyone shared a common determination to learn, grow, and support one another.
One standout moment was the wellness session led by Alex Broadbent, Director of RESET Health. It was refreshing to see how the programme acknowledged the importance of mental and physical well-being for entrepreneurs. The session included discussions on work-life balance, practical wellness tips, mindfulness exercises and even some exercises to get everyone moving. It left participants feeling reinvigorated and ready to tackle their business goals with renewed focus.
Another thing that stood out to me was how purpose-driven many of the businesses in the cohort were. The traditional focus on spinning profit and maximising gains didn’t really feature in the conversations. Instead, the entrepreneurs were deeply committed to solving real-world problems they had encountered, often rooted in their own life experiences. Whether it was addressing social challenges, improving community well-being, or creating innovative solutions to everyday issues, their passion for making a positive impact was palpable. It was inspiring to see how these individuals were channelling their expertise and energy into ventures that had the potential to create meaningful change.
Linked to this was the level of engagement and collaboration across the group. During breaks, I overheard conversations about challenges participants had overcome, insights they’d gained, and new opportunities they were exploring together. This wasn’t just a programme – it was the start of a supportive entrepreneurial community.
One participant shared their thoughts with me, “I had no idea that this level of support was available for people like me. The programme opened my eyes to resources, networks, and opportunities I never knew existed – it’s been a brilliant experience.”
Why Silver Founders is unique
What sets Silver Founders apart is its focus on creating a like-minded community of entrepreneurs over 50. Beyond the curriculum, the programme fosters lasting connections and collaborations, offering participants access to:
- Expert-led workshops on business planning, funding, AI, and intellectual property.
- One-on-one support throughout the programme.
- Introductions to the local business ecosystem and potential collaborators.
- A supportive environment where experience and wisdom are celebrated.
The journey of support doesn’t end with the final session of the Silver Founders programme. Depending on what stage their business is at, participants are guided to the next appropriate step. For some, this means follow-on support from the Growth Hub, providing access to a wealth of local resources and expertise. For others, it involves bespoke one-to-one support with our advisers, helping them refine their strategies to get their business investment ready. No matter where they are in their entrepreneurial journey, the programme ensures they are never left without direction or support.
Join us for the second cohort
If you’re ready to take your business aspirations to the next level, we invite you to join the second cohort of Silver Founders. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow an established business, this is your chance to gain the skills, networks, and confidence to succeed.
How to register
Visit our Eventbrite page BGWM Investment Readiness – Silver Founders Programme Tickets, Tue 28 Jan 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite and sign up by 22nd January 2025. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this fully funded opportunity to transform your entrepreneurial journey.
Closing thoughts
Silver Founders isn’t just a series of workshops or about starting or growing a business – it’s about unlocking potential, building confidence, and knowing that no matter where you are in your journey, there’s a community and resources ready to help you succeed.
We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of Silver Founders and empowering entrepreneurs over 50 to achieve their goals.
