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Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI)

Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR)

Self-Employment Program (EnterpriseWorks)

Self-employment is one of many career options which people with disabilities can explore with guidance from their RSC vocational rehabilitation counselor. EnterpriseWorks, a statewide program offered through RSC, helps individuals decide if owning a business is right for them. It offers:

  • tools and classes for self-assessment,
  • market analysis information,
  • business plan development assistance,
  • identification of financial options, and
  • business development counseling.

EnterpriseWorks provides participants with the full Photo: This man was one of the first self-employment program participants. He owns a successful business selling low vision aids and computer equipment.range of skills and knowledge necessary to plan and operate a small business. Classes are offered in many locations throughout Ohio, and other options may be available if a person is unable to attend. 

There are two types of classes.

  • The Small Business Management Overview is a self-assessment seminar that provides a realistic introduction to business ownership. It's designed to help an individual decide if he or she wants to own a business. The curriculum includes an overview of ownership challenges and the financial commitment needed for a business start up. The self-assessment component analyzes the individual's personal background, behavior patterns and lifestyle, in comparison with those of successful small business owners.


  • The Business Plan Development course helps participants test the feasibility of their ideas. This includes providing resources to research and obtain necessary information to complete a business plan. Technical assistance is provided by qualified business counselors who identify each step in the planning and start-up process, and help participants move toward their goal.

Once a business is up and running, EnterpriseWorks staff also provide follow-up services.


To Learn More About Self-Employment and EnterpriseWorks

Contact:
 
Bob Larkin, Director of Operations
EnterpriseWorks
100 E. Broad St., Suite 2460
Columbus, OH 43215
1-800-867-2997 voice
TTY users: please use the Ohio Relay Service - 1-800-750-0750
(614) 459-9071 fax

 

To contact EnterpriseWorks by e-mail, click here.

To visit the EnterpriseWorks Web site, click here.
 
To return to the BSVI home page, click here .
 
To return to the BVR home page, click here.

 

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Contact RSC

In Ohio, call 1-800-282-4536 voice/TTY
Outside Ohio, call (614) 438-1200 voice/TTY
Monday - Friday, 8:15 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Eastern Standard Time

Ted Strickland, Governor
John M. Connelly, RSC Executive Director
400 E. Campus View Blvd
Columbus, OH 43235-4604