There is a wealth of information available on the internet and at our office about starting up your own business. Here are some key resources and convenient links.
Abilities
The national leader and partner with other organisations and government on various projects related to disability and communications. They publish several disability-related books and publications, including Abilities, Canada’s Lifestyle Magazine for People with Disabilities.
The Abilities website links people with disabilities to a world of resources. for many people with disabilities, especially those who live in rural areas, online access is the key to finding the information they need.
Make a Change Canada/Faire un Changement Canada
A federally incorporated charitable organization accredited under the Imagine Canada Standards Program. We develop and deliver business start-up and web technology training to people facing challenges to employment. Our programs and services are available online across Canada. Visit: http://www.makeachangecanada.com
Business Abilities
Online business planning resources and one-on-one coaching assistance, from career exploration to new business mentorship. Services are available free of charge to people who self-identify as living with a disability. Training is flexible and supportive with a continuous intake. Visit and apply online: http://www.businessabilities.ca
Web Essentials/Web Advanced
Online, college accredited programs in web technologies and design, leading to careers in administration, marketing, e-business, and web design. Skills: Photoshop, HTML, CSS, Dreamweaver, Web Marketing, Social Media/Blogging, Web Programming, WordPress. Open to anyone facing challenges to employment (see eligibility). Visit and apply online: http://www.ibde.ca
To learn more about Make A Change Canada, please visit: http://www.makeachangecanada.com or call toll free at 1-888-9-ASPIRE (1-888-927-7473).
The Self Employment Explorer
This online toolkit of resources and exercises is for youth to explore self employment as a career option. The Explorer contains self assessment worksheets, links to career resources, and extras for youth with disabilities to learn about entrepreneurship, and even get the first steps to launching a small business.
If you are between the ages of 14 and 24, have a disability or health condition, or face barriers to regular employment, the Explorer can help you see a new perspective: entrepreneurship and self employment may be for you!
Small Business BC
The resource centre to help BC entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses
The Small Business Solver
The Small Business Solver is an online automated resource for small business owners. This resource is comprised of 48 training modules that are accessed through a questionnaire that highlights the next steps to take to solve your business challenge. Each module is a downloadable PDF file of 4-5 pages in length that includes business decision-making models and action steps. Users gain access to The Small Business Solver by purchasing an online registration from the company.
