Making Self-Employment Work for People with Disabilities

As self-employment becomes a viable option for more and more adults with significant disabilities, give them realistic, practical guidance and support with the NEW edition of this popular guidebook. Updated with a new and improved assessment approach, more self-employment success stories, and the latest on policy changes and online opportunities, this book is your step-by-step guide to helping adults with disabilities get a small business off to a strong start. You’ll discover the nuts and bolts of person-centered business planning, and you'll get concrete, step-by-step strategies for every aspect, from business plans to marketing to finances. A must-have resource for employment specialists, transition professionals, and individuals with disabilities and their families, this book is the go-to guide for turning a small business into a big success.

SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AS THEY:

• discover their "personal genius" with a new assessment approach
• build a thorough and professional business plan based on their goals and interests
• successfully finance their small business using multiple revenue sources
• market their business, from defining customers to advertising in a variety of media
• maintain their benefits while navigating financial and social security systems
• make the most of valuable support from rehabilitation personnel, vocational counselors, school transition staff, and community programs

PRACTICAL MATERIALS: Photocopiable planning worksheets, case studies that clearly illustrate the "how" of successful self-employment, and an annotated list of websites with vital information for small business owners.

WHAT’S NEW

• New, field-tested "Discovering Personal Genius" assessment approach
• Up-to-date ideas on using social media and technology to develop and market a business
• Completely revised information on person-centered business planning
• Updated information about online business opportunities
• Current policy information, including critical updates on Social Security
• New success stories from across the country
• More references to websites and web-based resources and information