Helping Americans with Disabilities Build Successful Small Businesses
Unlocking Digital Potential for Entrepreneurs with Disabilities
At the National Disability Institute (NDI), we’re dedicated to building a better economic future for people with disabilities through accessible small business resources, strategic partnerships and proven pathways to entrepreneurial success.
Connect with us to access free courses, mentorship, networking opportunities and grant funding through the Verizon Digital Ready Small Business Program and NDI’s Small Business Hub.
Small Business Support for the Disability Community
People with disabilities face an unemployment rate nearly twice as high as the general population, making entrepreneurship a vital pathway to economic independence. With the right digital tools and support, small business owners with disabilities can build thriving enterprises that contribute to their communities.
NDI is a mission-forward provider bringing Verizon’s powerful small business resources to entrepreneurs with disabilities, ensuring they can access specialized training, apply for grants, and connect with mentors who understand their unique needs.
Program Benefits At A Glance
750+
small business partners onboarded
40+
events held
100%
free of cost
$13.5M
in grants awarded to all registered small businesses
How NDI Empowers Financial Success
Digital Ready Verizon Small Business Program
We’ve partnered with Verizon to expand the reach of their Digital Ready Small Business Program to those with disabilities. This free service offers small businesses the ability to apply for relevant grants, learn growth strategies and access other valuable information. Because no business should be left behind.
This program offers:
- 100% free resources with no Verizon commitment required
- $10,000 grants available to Digital Ready members
- 3-41 minute courses designed to fit your busy schedule
- Customizable learning path across 12+ business topics
- Thousands of entrepreneurs supported nationwide through this initiative
Small Business Hub
NDI’s Small Business Hub provides specialized resources and support to help entrepreneurs with disabilities start, build and grow their businesses. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an existing business owner with a disability, we can help you start, build and grow your business.
Our Small Business Hub offers:
- Business planning assistance
- Access to capital resources
- Marketing and outreach support
- Financial management tools
- Connections to mentors and peers
Success Stories: Real People, Real Results
Ruby’s Vision in Action
“The support, connections, and genuine care offered by NDI’s staff have proven invaluable, contributing significantly to Financial Joy School’s growth and impact.”
When Ruby Taylor founded Financial Joy School in 2021, she had a vision to empower Black youth and families with financial literacy. Through NDI’s Small Business Hub, she gained speaking opportunities, media exposure, and valuable connections. Today, her organization reaches eight countries and 25 states, and innovations like her LEGACY! Card Deck help to close racial wealth gaps by making financial education accessible and engaging.
Venus’s Remarkable Resilience
“You have been an incremental part of my success in rebuilding my career.”
John faced significant barriers to employment after acquiring a disability in midlife. Through NDI’s employment programs, he accessed specialized job development services that helped him leverage his existing skills in a new work environment that accommodates his disability.
Tracy’s Entrepreneurial Drive
“I appreciate Ms. Ruth for introducing me to resources and networks to help me scale and grow my business. It has helped me to think positively and stay focused on my business goals and obligations.”
When Tracy Pulliam founded I.V.Y Transportation in 2019, he was concerned about how his entrepreneurship would affect his disability benefits. After connecting with NDI’s Small Business Hub, he received technical assistance with business development, digital marketing, and procurement, as well as introductions to valuable networks. Despite pandemic setbacks, Tracy successfully pivoted his business model and continues to build his transportation company with newfound confidence.
Choose Your Path: Small Business Resources for Every Need
For Entrepreneurs with Disabilities
- Access 100% free digital business courses and resources
- Apply for grants of up to $10,000 through Verizon Digital Ready
- Learn essential skills in marketing, finance and operations
- Build your business on your own schedule with bite-sized content
- Connect with mentors who understand disability-specific challenges
Ready to Build Your Business Skills?
Connect with us to learn about courses, grants and resources that support small business success for people with disabilities.
