IPR is featuring research throughout October in support of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
The National Disability Institute researched the challenges and opportunities for small business owners who have disabilities.
Multiple methods were used including a review of past census bureau survey data, in-depth surveys, focus groups, and interviews. Data were collected in 2022.
Key findings include:
1.) 61% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the statement: “I have to demonstrate superior knowledge to be taken seriously as a business owner with a disability.”
2.) 58% of respondents said they’ve used their disability experiences to develop and design products and services others haven’t thought of.
3.) 29% of respondents said networking with business owners who aren’t disabled is challenging because they get treated like they do not belong.
4.) 16% of respondents said they’ve lost customers because the customers preferred to work with business owners without disabilities.
Read the original research here.
