Your idea to target women with children and no time might work if you are looking for handy woman type work, but I'm not sure that the fear factor will keep you in business. With construction down all over the country, it is hard for any new business to get started. The established businesses want to keep their people busy, so will undercut, even if it means losing money, wanting to hold onto their quality workers, so they will be available when the economy turns around. You may find it better to specialize rather than compete. Focus on things that people might prefer hiring a woman for. Maybe you could expand your antique and ivory restoration business beyond your local community. People are probably more likely to hire women to do artistic work than brute labor work. 15 years between you isn't significant enough to compete with the established companies. Discover what you are most talented at and then convince people that they can't live without it. Focus on high-end consumers, who aren't as affected by the present economy. Put together a great portfolio and come across assertive and self-confident, not aggressive and cocky. Create demand for your product and then reach out to potential clients rather than wait for them to approach you. Get some good advertising. Talk shows are always looking for something unique and out of the ordinary. Connect with some set designers for TV and movies and see if they'd be willing to place some of your products in their productions. A display at home shows might be helpful, also. Don't limit yourself to women for advice or work. Sell yourself, not your gender. Not many successful, business-savvy women promote their gender, unless what they are selling is sex related. It generally takes a good 3 years to be able to have any business start supporting you rather than you supporting the business. With your choice of business and timing, it will probably take longer. Be patient and best wishes.