To assist middle-aged and older adults in navigating the uncertainties and challenges of entrepreneurship, the Ministry of Labor has launched the "Entrepreneurial Loan Program for Unemployed Middle-aged and Older Adults." This program provides entrepreneurial consultation and guidance, entrepreneurship training courses, and loans of up to NT$2 million, with full interest subsidies for the first two years. As of 2023, it has assisted 4,582 individuals, and by August 2024, an additional 3,235 individuals have benefited, demonstrating the program's extensive impact.
Ms. Tai, in her 50s, previously worked in department store marketing. She aspired to realize her entrepreneurial dream while caring for her elderly father. Encouraged by her husband, Ms. Tai founded "Plant Studio No. 55," leveraging her strong passion for plants. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in marketing and planning, she designed plant products tailored to different seasons and age groups. Through interactive courses, she encouraged participants to take and share joyful photos on social media, attracting more potential customers.
Moreover, Ms. Tai collaborated with the Pingtung City Long-term Care Center to provide venue decorations, gradually expanding the business of "Plant Studio No. 55" and earning a good reputation in the local community. Recently, she successfully secured a NT$750,000 entrepreneurial loan from the Ministry of Labor, which has greatly supported the growth of her business.
The Workforce Development Agency under the Ministry of Labor noted that while entrepreneurship involves risks, its affiliated branch offices offer basic and advanced entrepreneurship courses, including personalized aptitude analysis and consulting services. These measures effectively prepare middle-aged and older adults for entrepreneurship, enhancing their knowledge and skills. Additionally, the entrepreneurial loan program aims to address financial constraints, helping this demographic to manage their businesses steadily and pursue entrepreneurship with confidence.
Entrepreneurial Loans for Unemployed Middle-aged and Older Adults (Photo: Courtesy of the Workforce Development Agency Website)
For more employment measures and resources for middle-aged and older adults, please visit the "45+ Employment Resource Website." For entrepreneurial needs, you can visit the Micro Business Phoenix website or call the entrepreneurial consultation service hotline at 0800-092-957 for professional assistance.
