This session provides insights into the viability of self-employment for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) consumers, led by presenters Michael Frain, Jennifer Sánchez, and Ghari Shirley from Florida Atlantic University. The session explores changing economic landscapes, the thriving entrepreneurship sector, rehabilitation tenets, available resources, employment promotion, and fostering excitement. The presenters highlight significant rates of self-employment among individuals with disabilities, particularly in the national VR consumer population. Emphasizing positive psychological benefits, improved accessibility, and direct work control, the session provides insights into overcoming barriers and shares valuable resources for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the changing economic landscape and the thriving entrepreneurship sector for individuals with disabilities.
• Explore key rehabilitation tenets supporting self-employment and identify available resources for Vocational Rehabilitation consumers.
• Overcome barriers associated with self-employment and utilize resources to support individuals with disabilities in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.