[TheAdamAndChe]

For a multi-million dollar potential unicorn? Almost nobody even gets one chance. But for a small business started on the side and slowly grown? Anyone middle-class can in the US IMO. You don't need investors or massive loans to start a small business in your free time, just customers that can be earned through word-of-mouth when starting out. Capital grows exponentially, so even small profits can compound into something significant if reinvested.

[jfk13]

You do need enough free time to start said small business, though, as well as enough capital (even if not "massive loans"). For many people those requirements are pretty tough.

[caconym_]

And don’t forget how many people have clauses in their employment agreements saying that any IP they develop on or off the clock belongs to the company.

[vpEfljFL]

Nobody tells you it's easy, just it requires some sacrifices. If you really want it you'll find time.