Business Ownership for Disabled Persons: Now Easier Than Ever
Powerful online tools now make business ownership for disabled persons easier than ever. There are limitless possibilities for starting your own business. This article provides insight and steps you can take to achieve your dream.
Business Ownership for Persons with Disabilities
For those with drive and commitment, disabilities don’t need to be a barrier to business ownership. Working for yourself is an excellent alternative to traditional work. With a small business, you have the freedom to generate your own income without limitations or restrictions.
Start a Home-Based Business in Columbia, MO
You may know you want to start working for yourself, but if you’re not sure what you want to do, you may just need the right idea to inspire you. Here are a few to get you started:
- Art and music. Share your talents through online art or music lessons.
- Small item repairs. A small business repairing lawnmowers, blowers, and trimmers and sharpening lawnmower blades might be your perfect niche.
- Business. Offer online consulting, bookkeeping, or tax preparation.
- Food. If you have a killer recipe, why not make the product and sell it online?
- Internet/technology. If you dreamed of being a graphics designer or web developer, here’s your opportunity.
- Pets. If you enjoy training pets or pet-sitting, get paid for your services.
Once you’ve found the right idea, there are a few other steps to take to get your new company off the ground.
Business Grants
You may qualify for grants that are designed to help disabled persons become business owners. Many organizations can help disabled people with business funding.
Choose a Business Name
When deciding on a business name, research it by checking federal, state, and local business name records.
Form a Legal Entity
The most common business structure types are:
- Corporation
- Limited liability company (LLC)
- Partnership
- Sole proprietorship
Review the requirements for each structure to decide which fits your company.
Register to Pay Taxes
Apply for an EIN. Check with the Columbia county/city clerk if you need additional permits.
Business Banking—Business Credit
Separating your company and personal assets is essential to protecting your individual property. Establish credit quickly by opening two to three net-30 accounts. A business credit card also helps build your company’s credit.
Business Insurance
Business insurance is essential; discuss your needs with an online insurance brokerage—they can connect you with companies that provide the proper coverage.
Your Business Website
Design a logo using a free logo generator. Once you’ve created your brand, it’s time to create a website. Website building apps often provide a full suite of free or low-cost marketing tools.
Other Options for Success
If you’re not sure opening a business at this point in time is right for you, another choice to consider is working on a degree or taking classes online to increase your business skills and knowledge first. Make sure the school has accreditation and offers comparable tuition rates.
Achieve Your Goals
Maneuvering entrepreneurship can be challenging, and for some who are living with disabilities, the challenges can be even greater. However, if you follow the right steps, business ownership is within reach. Visit Boone’s Supported Living for help accessing resources in Columbia that can help.
