Starting A Business When You Are Disabled
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This is the perfect time to start a business if you are disabled. Working online is ideal for anyone, and with gig economy opportunities and the surge in the freelance market, the time is ripe for entrepreneurial success. There are many options available, but what are the benefits? And which are the best businesses? Let’s take a look.
From Job To Business
How does starting a business benefit you? Working from home can save you the hassle of accessibility issues from your employer. According to The Guardian, it also provides cost savings and schedule flexibility, giving freedom to those whose work may be affected by health issues and disabilities.
Starting a company from your home is a great way to earn a living without the hassle. However, you can – and should – keep your current job while building up your business.
Here are some business ideas that can be a good choice for you depending on your experience:
Online services, such as programming or web design.
Virtual assistance.
Computer-based customer support.
Services such as proofreading, accounting, or online marketing.
You can launch any past work experience into a business as well. Consider both a service-based business and teaching your skillset to others. You may also be uniquely equipped to start a business that solves a problem for the disabled community at large. For example, if you’ve overcome adversity, you can become a vocational coach or a motivational speaker. Another idea is inventing a device or item specifically designed for the disabled community.
If you are a disabled veteran, here is a list of the 50 best small business ideas for you from Profitable Venture, many of which are great ideas for individuals regardless of their veteran status.
Funding Your Small Business
You might need capital to set up your business, particularly if you have a creative idea. According to Chron, there are numerous agencies with grants or loans for disabled business owners. Research your local small business resources, private organizations, government grants such as the Disability Research Project and Centers Program Grant, and religious institutions. For more information on funding sources, check out this article from BizFluent.
Business Basics
You’ll also need to decide how to legally set up your business. Talk to your accountant or lawyer about which option best fits your needs and provides the security your business requires. You’ll also need to be prepared to file business taxes, and decide whether you need small business insurance.
Finding Customers
Like every business, you’ll need to find customers. Having a portfolio or testimonials is a great way to start. Online marketing is best for virtual businesses, but you’ll need to market offline for a local business. If you are offering a product or service strictly for the disabled community, you’ll need to target your marketing to this audience. Start by engaging with local disability organizations and virtual disability communities. Advertise at local events and in publications that cater to your community. Austin Startups has some useful advice for keeping a competitive marketing edge in your community.
Creating Your Home Office
The beauty of owning a business is, for many people, creating a home office that you can customize to match your lifestyle and habits. It should be a reflection of your personality and your business, while motivating you to take your dreams to the next level. Some questions to ask yourself about your home office include:
Will customers ever visit my office?
Do I have enough room for products?
What sort of shipping solutions do I need?
What kind of investment do I need for secure connectivity?
Do I need to upgrade my computer or buy a laptop?
Do I need a fax machine, postal services at my desk, a heavy-duty printer, or other such business items?
Will a custom-built desk that accommodates my disability make it easier to navigate my office?
With these ideas in mind, design your office to be a haven for creativity and productivity. Think outside the box of an accessible office job to create your dream business. With enough planning, research, and marketing, you can succeed as an entrepreneur.
— Patrick Young
