The Rise of the Everyday Entrepreneur:

Why More People Are Starting Businesses Than Ever Before

By Heather Christine, Contributing Writer for Everyday Experts

Once reserved for visionaries with deep pockets and big-city addresses, entrepreneurship has now become a path for everyday people—parents, creatives, career shifters, and side-hustlers—who are turning their skills, passions, and lived experiences into income-generating ventures. And the trend isn’t slowing down. In fact, we’re witnessing a business shift unlike anything we’ve seen in decades.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a record 5.5 million new business applications were filed in 2023. That’s nearly double what we saw pre-pandemic. Whether it’s a local bakery, a digital consulting service, or a handmade product shop on Etsy, people are redefining what work looks like and who gets to lead.

This shift is driven by a few major forces:

• Flexibility Over Tradition: People want more control over their time and income.

• Digital Access: With free tools, low startup costs, and global reach, it’s never been easier to launch something from your living room.

• Value-Driven Work: Many are starting businesses that align with their passions, family values, or community needs.

• Job Uncertainty: Layoffs, burnout, and economic instability have pushed people to create their own security.

The “Why” Behind the Business Boom

More than just profit, this new wave of business owners are driven by purpose. They want to build businesses that:

• Serve their community

• Support their family

• Create space for mental health and balance

• Break generational cycles of financial struggle

It’s no longer about chasing “Shark Tank” success it’s about building something real, sustainable, and fulfilling.

Who’s Leading This Shift?

Surprisingly (or maybe not), it’s not just tech bros in hoodies. The modern entrepreneur is a mom, a teacher, a retiree, a laid-off worker, a student, a maker. More women, people of color, and people from non-traditional backgrounds are entering the business world and they’re bringing fresh ideas and community-focused values with them.

Expert Takeaway

If you’ve been thinking about starting your own business big or small you’re not alone. In fact, your part of a growing movement of everyday experts who are rewriting the rules of work and proving that success doesn't have to look one way.

Whether you're launching a food truck, consulting online, or monetizing a lifelong hobby, know this: Your skills, your story, and your passion are more than enough to get started.

📣 Tell Us:

Are you an everyday entrepreneur? Thinking of starting something? Share your story with us at Everyday Experts. Let’s lift each other up and grow together.