Additional Resources
Business Basics: Essential Steps to Launch Your Startup (3-Part Series)
Business Basics: Essential Steps to Launch Your Startup (3-Part Series)
Starting a business is more than just having a great idea, it requires careful planning and the right foundation. This three-part webinar series will guide you through the essential steps to structure, protect and fund your business. Join industry experts as they share key insights to help you successfully launch your business with confidence.
Session 1: Legal Business Structures & Public Benefits Considerations
Date/Time: June 11, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM ET
- Choose the right legal structure (LLC, S-Corp, Sole Proprietorship)
- Understand how SSI, SSDI and public benefits impact business owners
- Select the best tax structure for your business
Session 2: Bookkeeping & Accounting Essentials for Startups
Date/Time: July 9, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM ET
- Learn bookkeeping, tax basics and obligations for sole proprietors and single-member LLCs
- Learn the importance of having a separate personal and business banking account to keep business financials organized.
- Learn how to obtain an EIN for free
- Gain understanding the basic concepts of cost of goods, revenue, expenses and profit
- Identify common tax mistakes that entrepreneurs can avoid.
Session 3: Financing your Business & Funding Strategies
Date/Time: August 13, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM ET
- Explore funding options for your business, such as loans or grants
- Build banking relationships
- Learn about CDFI’s and how they can support your financial business needs
- Build credit and financial security for business growth
Who Should Attend?
- Aspiring entrepreneurs and new business owners
- Small business owners looking to strengthen their financial and legal foundation
- Professionals supporting entrepreneurs as they start, build or grow their businesses
ASL Interpretation and Captioning will be provided. To make a reasonable accommodation request or if you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org. Please allow at least 3-5 business days’ advance notice; last minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill.
Set your business up for success. Register today!
The contents of webinar were developed under grant H421F240198 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this webinar may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this webinar does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency. (EDGAR 75.620)
All personal data will be kept confidential, and we will not share individual demographic data with any third party. National Disability Institute (NDI) collects data to help secure future funding to create programs that serve the community.
Empower Your Business with ABLE
Entrepreneurs and small business owners with disabilities face unique financial challenges and ABLE accounts can be a game-changer. This session will explore how ABLE accounts support business owners in 2025 and beyond, helping you maximize financial security while maintaining essential benefits.
If ABLE isn’t yet a part of your business strategy, now is the time to learn how it can enhance both your financial future and your employees’ success.
Topics Include:
- ABLE account eligibility
- ABLE Plan features
- Contributions & the ABLE to Work provision
- Work-Related Qualified Disability Expenses
- How ABLE can serve as a financial resource for employees
ASL Interpretation and Captioning were provided. If you have questions about this session, please email info@disabilitysmallbusiness.org.
Watch on YouTube (coming soon!)
View and download the PowerPoint Slides
The contents of webinar were developed under grant H421F240198 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this webinar may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this webinar does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency. (EDGAR 75.620)
Small Business Innovation Research/ Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Masterclass
Presented By: Kimberly Mozingo, Vice President, Federal Programs, TEDCO
Accessing research and development funds to enable future growth and commercialization can be extremely challenging. A potential option is obtaining funding through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. This informative session provides an overview of these federal programs, including eligibility criteria, application processes and the benefits of securing SBIR/STTR funding. Learn how to leverage these programs to drive innovation and growth in your small business.
ASL Interpretation and Captioning will be provided. To make a reasonable accommodation request or if you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org. Please allow at least 3-5 business days’ advance notice; last minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill.
ASL Interpretation and Captioning were provided. If you have questions about this session, please email info@disabilitysmallbusiness.org.
View and download the PowerPoint Slides
The contents of webinar were developed under grant H421F240198 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this webinar may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this webinar does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency. (EDGAR 75.620)
Ambition to Achievement: Goal Setting That Works
Ambition is great, but ambition without feasibility is failure in disguise. Around this time of year, you’re setting goals for your business—brainstorming, whiteboarding, and daring to dream big. But without the right structure, capabilities, and systems, those goals risk remaining just that—dreams.
So, what does it take to translate ambition into actual impact? What does it take to turn bold goals into real success?
It takes an integrated set of choices, capabilities, and support systems—in other words, it takes an engine to drive your goals forward.
The Business Goal Engine (BGE) is a powerful framework of six interconnected, interdependent elements designed to move you from ambition to achievement.
Join us for the Ambition to Achievement Masterclass, where you’ll learn how to:
- Turn bold ambitions into feasible, actionable goals.
- Build the systems and capabilities needed to bring strategy to life.
- Align dreams, tactics, and techniques, for real and sustained progress
This isn’t just about dreaming big—it’s about winning smart. Whether you’re planning for 2025 or the decade ahead, this masterclass will provide the clarity and tools you need to turn ambition into achievement and vision into real, lasting impact.
ASL Interpretation and Captioning were provided. If you have questions about this session, please email info@disabilitysmallbusiness.org.
Watch the Zoom Recording (with shared screen and gallery view)
Watch the Webinar on YouTube (with corrected captions)
View and download the PowerPoint Slides
The contents of webinar were developed under grant H421F240198 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this webinar may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this webinar does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency. (EDGAR 75.620)
Addressing Barriers to Opportunity for Diverse Suppliers
Diverse and emerging businesses often find it cost-prohibitive to meet requirements like cyber security, insurance, and bonding when bidding for corporate business. Too many otherwise-qualified businesses are prevented from securing contract opportunities due to the high cost of compliance, creating a very real barrier to entry. LISC manages the Emerging and Diverse Supplier Financing Program aimed at providing businesses with the access to capital they need to secure corporate contracts. Our goal is to create an industry-wide solution that will remove common obstacles to doing business and contribute to building generational wealth in diverse communities nationwide. Learn about this innovative new program during our webinar.
Presented by: Yvonne Durbin, Director of the Capital Innovation Lab for the Strategic Investments (SI) group at Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
Watch the Zoom Recording (with shared screen and gallery view)
Watch the Webinar on YouTube (with corrected captions)
View and download the PowerPoint Slides
ASL Interpretation was provided by Interpreter Now and Captioning was provided by Caption First. If you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org.
GHA Training: Blending Funding for Self-Employment
This session will provide viewers with an example of a business owner who used several funding streams and resources to launch their business. The example will include details about the business owner’s experience, including lessons learned, as well as provide a brief explanation of each funding source. The session will include featured guests comprised of the business owner and other key team members.
Presented by Griffin-Hammis Associates
Guest Speakers:
- Rachel of Rachel Rasnick Art
- Michael of Red, White & Brew and Budding Violet
Watch the Zoom Recording (with shared screen and gallery view)
Watch the Webinar on YouTube (with corrected captions)
View the slides from Rachel Rasnick and Michael Coyne
ASL Interpretation was provided by Interpreter Now and Captioning was provided by Caption First. If you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org.
GHA Training Series: Reporting Business Activity for SSDI/Medicare
This session will explain the timing and process for reporting the start of a business and ongoing business activity for SSDI and Medicare, including Medicare financial assistance programs. This session will also explain how Social Security reviews an SSDI beneficiary’s work activity and the documentation an SSDI beneficiary should keep and be prepared to submit to Social Security.
Presented by: Griffin-Hammis Associates
Watch the Zoom Recording (with shared screen and gallery view)
Watch the Webinar on YouTube (with corrected captions)
ASL Interpretation was provided by Interpreter Now and Captioning was provided by Caption First. If you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org.
Preparing for Accessing Capital
During this session, Karlene Sinclair-Robinson, Director of CBP’s Business Finance Center, will address the capital challenges small business can face, and explore how to prepare for capital and strategies for accessing it. Community Business Partnership (CBP), based in Springfield, Virginia, is one of the organizations certified by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s CDFI Fund. They are also a Small Business Administration’s Approved Intermediary Microlender, and a Virginia Small Business Resiliency Lender. The organization focuses on lending to small businesses, startups, and individuals seeking to start up micro-enterprises. The CBP provides loans starting at $1,000 to qualified applicants in their geographically approved markets.
Karlene started with CBP as a client 18+ years ago and evolved to where she supported the organization’s lending mission to bringing the current loan funds and programs to the community. Karlene is considered an Alternative Financing Expert and is a speaker on numerous topics impacting the small business community.
Presented by: Community Business Partnerships
Watch the Zoom Recording (with shared screen and gallery view)
ASL Interpretation was provided by Interpreter Now and Captioning was provided by Caption First. If you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org.
GHA Training Series: Reporting Business Activity for SSI/Medicaid
This session will explain the timing and process for reporting the start of a business and ongoing business activity for SSI and Medicaid. This session will also explain how Social Security adjusts the SSI benefit based on projected net earnings from self-employment and reconciles the benefit payments after the business tax return is completed.
Watch the Zoom Recording (with shared screen and gallery view)
Watch the Webinar on YouTube (with corrected captions)
ASL Interpretation was provided by Interpreter Now and Captioning was provided by Caption First. If you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org.
Is Owning a Business a Good Fit for You?
Completing this class is an important step towards deciding whether you should start a business. After completing this class, you will be able to:
- Clarify some of the myths and realities of small business ownership.
- Start a self-assessment to determine your readiness to become a small business owner.
- Set a plan of action to complete your self-assessments by seeking feedback from stakeholders, such as family, friends, and potential customers.
- Have exclusive access to grant opportunities and professional consulting and mentorship 1:1.
- Learn more about various business resources and program opportunities.
Register here: https://startup2023.eventbrite.com
To make a reasonable accommodation request or if you have questions about this event, please email Ruth Chavez at rchavez@ndi-inc.org. Please allow at least 3-5 business days’ advance notice; last minute requests will be accepted though may not be possible to fulfill.
GHA Training Series: Starting Small with My Big Goals
This session explains how entrepreneurs can get their businesses going with little to no capital by starting small with products, launches, and partnerships. Featured guests will share their methods of business growth that allowed them to work slowly and steadily towards their big goals. Guests will speak on how they created community awareness and excitement around their business with little-to-no overhead costs.
Presented by: Griffin-Hammis Associates
Guest Speakers: Daman Wandke of Wandke Consulting and Victor Ocando of Adapt The Game
Watch the Webinar on YouTube (with corrected captions)
ASL Interpretation was provided by Interpreter Now and Captioning was provided by Caption First. If you have questions about this session, please email Alexis Jones at ajones@ndi-inc.org.
Entrepreneurship, Disability, and CDFIs: Session 3: CDFI and Founder Experiences
Accessing capital can be essential for business growth, yet many founders with disabilities report experiencing significant barriers. Come and join us for the third of the five-part webinar series to hear from Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) who have found ways to increase inclusion and from disability owned businesses on how they obtained the capital they needed.
Special Guests: Angela Neira of Life Asset and Dishoun Harris
ASL interpretation and captioning were provided during the session. If you have any accessibility requests or questions, please email ajones@ndi-inc.org.
Entrepreneurship, Disability, and CDFIs: Session 2: CDFI and Founder Experiences
Accessing capital can be essential for business growth, yet many founders with disabilities report experiencing significant barriers. This is the 2nd session in a five-part webinar series to hear from Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) who have found ways to increase inclusion and from disability owned businesses on how they obtained the capital they needed.
Special Guests:
- Galen Gondolfi of Justine Petersen
- Kelly Schellert of Ceanii Artful Interiors
- Terran Rome at the Legacy Institute
- Charlene Day
ASL interpretation and captioning were provided during the session. If you have any accessibility requests or questions, please email ajones@ndi-inc.org.
Disability-Sensitivity Session 9: Social Media and Accessibility
The content you deliver via social media should be accessible. However, social media platforms don’t always make it easy to add alternative text or consider other disabilities like hearing impairment or loss, visual impairment or loss, distractions, etc. In this workshop, you will learn tips to make your social media content as compliant as possible so everyone can participate.
ASL interpretation and live captioning (CART) was provided during the session. If you have any accessibility requests or questions, please email ajones@ndi-inc.org.
Disability Awareness and Sensitivity Series: Session 10- Creating Accessible PDF’s
PDF document accessibility plays a vital role in the overall accessibility of your website. To provide an equal experience for all users, regardless of disability, you must develop all digital content with accessibility in mind.
ASL interpretation and live captioning (CART) were provided during the session. If you have any accessibility requests or questions, please email ajones@ndi-inc.org.