Running a small business can be a life-changing experience, providing personal fulfillment and financial security. This is especially true for people with disabilities, who face additional challenges in finding work and carrying out daily tasks. There are approximately 6.2 million people with disabilities in Canada, and many want to become small business owners to build a sustainable future for themselves.
People with disabilities can benefit from owning a business in various ways, including schedule and workload flexibility, the ability to choose their clients, and the opportunity to leave a legacy. Also, entrepreneurship allows these individuals to become self-sufficient, make meaningful connections with others, and give back to the community.
Community Futures Central Alberta is committed to helping people with disabilities who want to start their businesses reach their goals. We offer various services, such as business advice, training, free tools, and loans made to fit the needs of people with disabilities.
By building a small business community that is diverse and open to everyone, we can make society more prosperous and fair. Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their entrepreneurial goals, regardless of background or abilities. We are proud to assist aspiring business owners with disabilities in realizing their ambitions.
Disabilities in the Workforce
Recent statistics have shed light on the employment status of people with disabilities in Canada. Approximately 22% of Canadians identify as having at least one disability. However, the employment rate for people with disabilities is only around 59%, compared to 80% for non-disabled people. Furthermore, while Canada's general population unemployment rate is currently 7.5%, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is significantly higher at 16.3%.
Despite the challenges, efforts are being made to create a more inclusive workforce. To help people with disabilities find and keep jobs, the Canadian government has set up programs and initiatives like the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities and the Employer Partnership Program.
However, there are few opportunities to encourage people with disabilities to start their own businesses. Despite having a high level of entrepreneurial potential, only 7% of self-employed individuals in Canada have a disability, according to Statistics Canada. This suggests that more should be done to encourage and support disabled people in starting their businesses.
One potential solution is to implement targeted programs and resources designed specifically for people with disabilities who want to start their businesses. These programs could give them access to mentors, funding, and other resources to help them deal with the challenges of being an entrepreneur. Furthermore, increasing awareness of the benefits of entrepreneurship for people with disabilities may help increase the number of people who pursue this path.
Advantages of Owning a Business for Individuals with Disabilities
People with disabilities who own businesses can show off their skills and abilities without worrying about their disabilities limiting their work. They can make their business fit their skills and interests, giving them a fulfilling job.
Starting a business can also provide access to new networks and markets, which can aid in the growth and profitability of their company. This is especially important for people with disabilities, who may face social isolation or have limited job opportunities.
Owning a business can also help dispel stereotypes and misconceptions about people with disabilities. They can show society that a disability does not limit their abilities or potential by being successful entrepreneurs.
A sense of community and support can also be provided by owning a business. Individuals can share their experiences, gain insights and advice, and build a network of peers who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of running a company with a disability.
Providing more chances for people with disabilities to start their own businesses could positively affect the economy. According to a Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis study, increasing the employment rate of people with disabilities could add $16.8 billion to the Canadian economy.
Resources and Support for Individuals with Disabilities Who Want to Start a Business
Starting a business may seem challenging, but people with disabilities who want to explore the world of entrepreneurship have access to many resources and help.
Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program
Community Futures Central Alberta is one such resource. Our group is dedicated to helping small business owners in rural areas grow and be successful. We offer services like business coaching, training, and flexible loans that are made to fit the needs of small business owners.
The Community Futures Network’s Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, in particular, is designed to provide a one-of-a-kind form of assistance to people with disabilities who want to start or expand their small businesses. People with disabilities or long-term health problems can receive funding from this program for coaching or training. Our mission is to make business development accessible to everyone, regardless of background or challenges.
Government-Funded Programs
In Canada, the Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC) offers entrepreneurship support and training to disabled veterans who want to start or grow their businesses. The Canadian government also has programs and resources for people with disabilities who want to start their own businesses. These include the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities and the Canada Business Network.
Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW)
The Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) helps people with disabilities find business opportunities and provides information about workplace accommodations.
Other Organizations and Advocacy Groups
Additionally, there are many disability organizations and advocacy groups that offer resources and guidance for people with disabilities who are interested in entrepreneurship. In Canada, several organizations and advocacy groups support entrepreneurship for people with disabilities. These include the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW), Disabled Women’s Network (DAWN) Canada, Barrier-Free Canada, Canadians with Disabilities, and Neil Squires Society. These groups offer a variety of programs, resources, and projects that help people with disabilities start and run their own businesses.
Owning a business can be a fantastic way for people with disabilities to achieve financial independence, a sense of purpose, and a higher quality of life. Even though traditional jobs may not always be available or the best fit, being an entrepreneur gives many people with disabilities the freedom and control they need.
Community Futures Central Alberta is here to help you start and grow your small business by providing the necessary resources, support, and guidance. Entrepreneurs with disabilities are encouraged to look into this exciting and empowering career path and to get in touch with us if they need help making their business dreams come true.
