Michael Leverett Michael Leverett

Disability Sports Network and The D Connection!

Disability Connections will be producing regular live and on demand broadcast of the Houston County Sharks beginning the month of January 2023. If you come join us online at The Disability Connection (our online community), you can join the excitement and discussion around the broadcast. We are also inviting Youth with disabilities to be a part of our production team through out the year to be a part of our community media team(s). Here is the upcoming Wheelchair Basketball game coming up that you can attend in person or online during our Live Broadcast!

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Michael Leverett Michael Leverett

What Business Ownership Makes the Most Sense for People with Disabilities?

What Business Ownership Makes the Most Sense for People with Disabilities?

People with disabilities are more than capable of running successful businesses.

[Author and Contributor: Suzanne Tanner]

People with disabilities are more than capable of running successful businesses. In fact, there are many industries that can be adapted to accommodate varying abilities. However, it’s important to note that the factors which make a business successful will change depending on the specific disability.

So, what types of businesses might be a better fit? Disability Connections explores a few examples and discusses what steps need to be taken in order to start your business ownership venture.

Small Business Ownership Ideas

As you consider which businesses are the best fit for you and your abilities, it’s important to think about your own needs. What are you passionate about? What skills do you have that can bring something to your chosen industry?

Perhaps you have a vision for helping others, such as hiring people with disabilities to give them a chance in the business world. Moreover, is there a particular field that interests you? Maybe getting schooling on the subject would help ensure your success. These are all very important things to think about as you work toward creating your business plan.

How to Get Funding for Your Business

There are a lot of ways to fund your business, but the most common method is by getting a loan from a bank. You’ll need to find a lender who will work with you and your business. But before you head to the bank, make sure you know how much you’re looking for so it doesn’t end up being more than what’s needed.

If you decide to get an SBA loan, which is backed by the government, there are some things that you should keep in mind.

Other loan considerations include:

●      USDA business loan

●      Assistive technology business loans

●      Accion Opportunity Fund loan

Each of these loans can provide you with the funding you need to start your small business. However, you may find that traditional loans are easier to secure. Therefore, it pays to explore each option comprehensively to ensure that you get the best offer.

How to Find Customers for Your Business

One of the most challenging aspects of starting a business is getting customers. Where do you find people who want to buy your products or services? And how do you get them to come back again?

Grasshopper points out that there are many different ways to find customers for your business, and it all starts with targeting your ideal customer. Take some time to think about who would be interested in what you’re selling. Figure out what has led people in the past to purchase from you and use those insights as a starting point for finding more potential customers.

You can also reach out to people on social media, post flyers around town, or advertise on websites related to your industry.

How to Structure Your Business

The way you structure your business will depend on the type of business you’re running. There are many types of businesses, from corporations to sole proprietorships to LLCs. The first step is finding out what it takes to actually start a business.

If you’re looking for an easier organization to manage, CHRON notes that an LLC is a great fit. LLCs involve less paperwork and have tax advantages. What’s more, forming an LLC Georgia will ensure limited liability and greater overall flexibility. But before you hire a lawyer to start the paperwork on your LLC, consider hiring an LLC formation service instead. It’s more cost-effective and often more efficient.

Also of note; each state has different laws regarding LLCs. So you will want to check with your state’s LLC laws to make sure you are compliant before proceeding.

With the above tips and suggestions, your decision on the type of business you plan to run should come a bit easier. With good business practices and some help from others, you’ll be up and running in no time!

Image via Pexels


****Another resource is Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency

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Michael Leverett Michael Leverett

Disability Connections present The Disability Connection

The Disability Connection

With the difficulty, due to COVID and other challenges i.e. Transportation, of the Middle Georgia Disability Community getting together for events, meetings, training, and fun, Disability Connections presents The Disability Connection. It is our new online community! What can you expect if you join:

  • Online independent living courses that we call iLU Courses (independent living university)

  • Private and public groups

    • Assisitive Technology

    • Fun and Leisure

    • Service Animals

    • and more to come

  • Topics

    • Peer Support - Peer 2 Peer

    • Are you prepared - emergency preparedness

    • iL Success Stories

    • Laugh About It

    • Assistive Technology

    • Service Animals

    • and more

  • Live Online and/or on-location events

    • ADA recognition

    • Peer Support

    • Assistive Technology Demonstrations

    • Valuable Resource Interviews

    • and more

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