We’ve partnered with Simply Business to launch the Second Act Entrepreneur Fund: £10,000 grants and one-to-one coaching from Hatch for entrepreneurs over 40.
At Hatch Enterprise, we back founders facing systemic barriers to entrepreneurship. Age should never be one of them, but for many people over 40, it is.
Since 2014, we’ve supported more than 10,000 entrepreneurs across the UK, including many who started their businesses later in life. We’ve seen first-hand how much experience, resilience and insight they bring, and how often a lack of funding and support holds them back.
The untapped potential of entrepreneurs over 40
Founders who start their business later in life bring something that’s hard to teach: years of knowing their industry, their customers and themselves. Yet many still wonder if they’ve left it too late.
New research from Simply Business shows what’s left off the table whilst people over 40 remain unable to start and grow businesses:
- 34% of over-40s would rather own their own business than work for an employer.
- 60% believe people over 40 have a business advantage from their practical life experience.
- 38% of over-40s worry that it’s too late to start a business.
- 65% say mentorship from experienced business owners would make them more confident.
Simply Business estimates that if the over-40s with an unacted business idea went on to launch, they could add as much as £391 billion to the UK economy. (Source: Simply Business, 2026)
Simply Business found that funding and mentorship are what most often hold over-40s back. The Second Act Entrepreneur Fund offers both.
“For a lot of over-40s, starting a business can mean leaving behind a job for something bigger and better where their knowledge and true value can be utilised. For others, being caught up in the rising rates of unemployment among later-in-life workers has been their sign to try something different. Whatever the reason, we ultimately want the skills over-40s have honed over decades to have a place to flourish. Entrepreneurship can offer that place”
Thinking of applying? Here's what you need to know
Tips for a strong grant application
If you’re 40 or over, are a UK resident, and have a business or strong business idea, this fund is for you. There’s no upper age limit, and you don’t need to be trading yet. One entry per person and per business. Applications are open until 23:59 on 12th November 2026.
What do winners receive?
- A £10,000 business grant.
- A one-to-one coaching programme with Hatch Enterprise, starting online in December 2026, with an in-person kick-off in late January 2027 where you’ll meet your mentor and fellow winners.
- A place in the Hatch Enterprise alumni network, connecting you with founders, partners and supporters across the UK.
How to apply for the £10,000 grant
Complete the short entry form on the Simply Business website. You’ll share your business website or social media, plus 100–200 words on your business and how you’d use the £10,000. Entries close at 23:59 on 12 November 2026.
We’ve supported more than 10,000 entrepreneurs since 2014. Here’s what makes an application stand out:
- Be specific. Say exactly what the £10,000 would pay for and what difference it would make.
- Show your evidence. Sales, customers, pre-orders or market research all help prove demand.
- Tell your story. Why did you start, and why now? Your life experience is an asset – use it.
- Use your own words. AI is fine for checking spelling and grammar, but entries that appear to be written entirely by AI won’t be shortlisted.
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