Why Female-Founded Businesses Often Start After 43

There is a growing body of research showing that many successful female-founded businesses begin after age 43. A 2018 study from the Harvard Business Review found that the average age of the most successful startup founders is actually 45—not 25. Women, in particular, often hit their stride as entrepreneurs later than expected by conventional standards.

This is not about being behind. It is about being ready.

Why 43 (and Beyond) Works

By their 40s, many women have developed:

• Deep industry experience

• Strong professional networks

• Financial stability or access to capital

• A clear understanding of what kind of work fits their life

• The confidence to trust their decisions

This combination creates a strong foundation for launching a business with staying power.

The Power of Clarity

Time does not just provide experience. It gives clarity.

At 43, many women know:

• What problems they are uniquely equipped to solve

• How to lead and when to listen

• What they want their work to look like—and what they will not tolerate

• How to build smart, not just fast

That clarity leads to better decisions, fewer wasted steps, and stronger alignment between business goals and personal values.

A Real-World Example

Our founder, Randi Potasky, started Dexterous at age 43.

After decades in the payments industry, she saw a problem she knew she could solve—companies were struggling to hire people who truly understood the space. She believed payments people should be hiring payments people.

That insight led to Dexterous. Built on firsthand experience, industry knowledge, and the ability to recognize the right talent for the right role.

The timing was not early. It was right. And it worked.

Why Female-Founded Businesses Thrive Later

Many of the most successful female-founded businesses are launched when the founder is in her 40s or beyond. By that time, women often have the tools, insight, and conviction needed to scale something meaningful.

For Women Wondering If It Is Too Late

It is not.

If you are in your 40s or beyond and considering starting your own business, you are not behind—you are likely more prepared than you think.

You do not need to move fast. You need to move intentionally.

The most successful female-founded businesses are built on experience, insight, and timing. That kind of success does not require being first. It requires being ready.

Related Reading

• Why Women Over 40 Are Starting Businesses at Record Rates (Forbes)

• What Sets Successful Founders Apart (Harvard Business Review)

Wrap Up

There is no deadline for launching something meaningful. For many women, age 43 is not a midpoint—it is a starting line.

If you are building a business, switching careers, or taking your first real swing—go. It is not too late. You might be right on time.

Need help growing your team or planning your next hire?

Contact Dexterous to work with recruiters who understand fintech, payments, and scaling smart.