Self Employment

Guiding Principles&

Steps to Success

Financial Support for The Texas Customized Self-Employment Project is provided by the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, with Federal funds* made by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities.

*($112,704) (78%) DD funds; ($32,019) (22%) non-federal resources

Why People Choose Self Employment

To more closely meet their work dreams and goals

To supply their own accommodations

Better level of income and control of benefits

Opportunity

What People Need for Self Employment

TransportationEquipmentTrainingOn-going technical assistanceMarketing & logistical strategiesBusiness management services

The Difference Between Self Employment & Entrepreneurship

No increasing equity in a businessInitially, no employeesMay be a partnershipResource ownership to qualify for

a “created” jobNo business plan

Step 1: Finding the Dream

Utilize person-centered or “strengths based” techniques to establish interests, experience or resources

Gather information concerning strengths and interests in trying various business options

Step 2: Developing Supports &

AccommodationsEmployment team members often

supply supports or resources for supports

Supports may include:Business planningMarket developmentTrainingTransportation

Step 3: The Product

What exactly are you selling to make money?

Initially may be dictated by person’s interests, background, and values

Modification of product may be dictated by logistics, markets or expenses

Step 4: Marketing

Importance of selecting initial customer population

Importance of planning in reaching the target customer

Importance of modification of strategy as business activity progresses

Step 5: Pricing

Combat low valuation of the person’s time and contribution to the employment endeavor

May begin with a survey of similar business’ prices, if appropriate

Pay yourself enough!!

Step 6: Funding Your Dream

Do you have the $$Personal savingsSSA Work Incentives (PASS)Family membersOrganizational investorsMicro business loansSpecial economic development grants