Entrepreneurship can be a challenging journey for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging for people with disabilities. However, with advances in technology and greater awareness of the value of diversity, there are now more resources available than ever before to help Disabled Entrepreneurs succeed. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the funding and support resources available to entrepreneurial people with disabilities.
- The National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR)
NIDILRR is a federal agency that promotes research and development focused on improving the lives of people with disabilities. One of its key programs is the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, which provides funding to small businesses, including those owned by people with disabilities, to develop and commercialize innovative products and services.
- The National Disability Institute (NDI)
NDI is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on promoting financial empowerment and independence for people with disabilities. It offers a range of programs and services to support disabled entrepreneurs, including financial coaching, business planning assistance, and access to funding resources.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA is a federal agency that provides a wide range of resources and support to small businesses across the country. It offers a number of programs specifically tailored to disabled entrepreneurs, including loans and grants, training and education programs, and access to mentors and networking opportunities.
- The Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) Certification
The DOBE certification is a program that certifies businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by people with disabilities. This certification can open doors to new funding and contracting opportunities, as well as provide access to valuable resources and support networks.
- The Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
JAN is a free service provided by the U.S. Department of Labor that offers a range of resources and support to disabled entrepreneurs, including information on workplace accommodations, legal and regulatory requirements, and funding opportunities.
- The Social Security Administration (SSA)
The SSA offers a number of programs and services to support disabled entrepreneurs, including the Ticket to Work program, which provides access to vocational rehabilitation services and other resources to help disabled individuals start or grow their businesses.
- The National Association of the Self-Employed (NASE)
NASE is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to self-employed individuals across the country. It offers a range of benefits to members, including access to health insurance, legal and tax advice, and funding resources.
- The Special Needs Ability Program (SNAP)
SNAP is a nonprofit organization that provides funding and support to disabled entrepreneurs who are starting or growing their businesses. It offers a range of services, including business planning assistance, mentorship programs, and access to funding resources.
- Disability Rights Advocates (DRA)
DRA is a nonprofit legal organization that provides legal representation and advocacy for disabled individuals and businesses. It offers a range of services, including assistance with disability-related legal issues, access to funding resources, and training and education programs.
- The AbilityOne Program
The AbilityOne program is a federal procurement program that provides contracting opportunities to businesses that employ people with disabilities. This program can provide a valuable source of revenue and support for disabled entrepreneurs seeking to grow their businesses.
In conclusion, there are many resources and support systems available to disabled entrepreneurs seeking to start or grow their businesses. From funding and grant opportunities to mentorship programs and legal advocacy, these resources can help level the playing field and provide access to the tools and resources needed to achieve success. With the right support, disabled entrepreneurs can overcome the unique challenges they face and build thriving businesses that contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant economy. Call BizCentral USA at 833-217-9667 to find out more.
