Continuing Education: Starting a business after 50

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Adults who want to start a business can learn business basics at an Edmonds CC Continuing Ed class, “Starting a Business After 50” on February 11, 2017 from 9am to noon on the EdCC campus. The class will be taught by Paula Ward, M.B.A., business instructor and entrepreneur. Learn more and register here.

Ward will share simple low-cost methods for launching a business, easy ways to test ideas, simple, focused marketing strategies and more. There will time for questions and participants will take home a list of action steps.

Ward feels that the costs of starting a small business are the lowest they’ve ever been, thanks to technology like the internet and desktop printers. For those who are intimidated by technology, Ward states that outsourcing tasks has also become easier than ever, and feels the only “must” is the ability to use email.

Although adults of all ages are welcome in the class, Ward has focussed on those over 50 because she feels they face special work and career challenges. Ageism in the workplace is rampant, and older workers often face greater health challenges and family demands that make a full-time, on-site job untenable. Retirees may face income shortfalls, boredom and unfulfilled career dreams. A small business can be full-time or part-time and be a way to generate income, pursue a passion and stay connected to the community.

Ward adds that older adults often have advantages in the start-up landscape: industry knowledge and skills, emotional maturity and networks built up over decades.

Edmonds Community College is located at 20000 68th Ave W, Lynnwood 98036.