SUSTAINABLEENTREPRENEURSHIPCOHORTA DISABILITY-INFORMED SMALL BUSINESS COURSE
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
Build a business that works for you, not against you.
Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Disability-Informed Business Cohort is a free 4-week program for disabled, chronically ill, and neurodivergent entrepreneurs. Build practical skills in networking, business resilience, digital tools, and funding while learning strategies for creating a business that works with your capacity.
Presented by The Empower Network and Omni Circle Group with support from National Disability Institute and Verizon Small Business Digital Ready.
What to Expect:
Disability-informed business education and peer support.
Guided access to the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform
A free laptop or tablet for eligible participants through Omni Circle Group's ADOPT program
Individualized accommodation planning based on your needs
Support applying for a $10,000 VSBDR grant for those who have met the course requirements
A personalized roadmap for your next business steps
Session Schedule:
Session 1: Get Connected: Setting Up for Success
Sat, Sept 19, 2026 | 2:00–3:30pm | Omni Circle, Topeka
Meet fellow participants, pick up your device (if eligible), register for VSBDR, and start exploring how disability and capacity shape your business.
Session 2: Breaking Barriers: Getting in the Room
Sat, Oct 3 | 2-3:30pm | Virtual Classroom
Building your network, brand, and business presence — disability-informed strategies for navigating relationships, visibility, funding, and access barriers.
Session 3: Build a Business That Bends
Sat, Oct 17 | 2-3:30pm | Virtual Classroom
Building a resilient business: Designing a business model that holds up even when your health fluctuates.
Session 4: Make Your Move
Sat, Nov 7 | 2-3:30pm | Hybrid: Virtual or Omni Circle
Turn what you've learned into an actionable business roadmap and get support on your $10,000 Verizon Small Business grant (for eligible participants).
Frequently Asked Questions
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This cohort is designed for disabled, chronically ill, and neurodivergent entrepreneurs and people actively pursuing or exploring entrepreneurship.
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No. We welcome both current business owners and people who are seriously exploring starting a business.
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The pilot run of the Sustainable Entrepreneurship Cohort is free for accepted participants.
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The cohort includes four sessions combining disability-informed business education, peer connection, and Verizon Small Business Digital Ready resources.
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The first session will be held in person at Omni Circle Group in Topeka, Kansas. The remaining sessions will be held virtually, and the final session has an in person or virtual option.
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No. You never need to disclose a diagnosis or medical information. You only need to communicate accommodation needs if you would like us to provide support.
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No. Participation does not guarantee funding. The program will help you use Verizon Small Business Digital Ready resources and prepare to pursue available grant opportunities.
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You may still qualify, depending on your address. If you aren’t within driving distance of Topeka, KS and would like to request a cohort in your area, fill out this form: https://theempowernetwork.myflodesk.com/verizon-interest
Want to help spread the word?
If you would like to refer your clients, patients, friends, or colleages to our program, please find all the information about the program here, including social media posts for you to share!