What is The Micro-Enterprise Program?


Community Enterprises Micro Enterprise Program provides individuals with disability and those who support them the assistance necessary to pursue and conduct their own business.  The program is funded, in part, by the United Way.  It may be an ideal option for those who are transitioning from school to work or who have not been successful in securing other community employment.



Services offered by the micro enterprise program include consultation, organization, and direct support:



Discovery  This is  usually the first step and involves learning about the potential entrepreneur:  who the person is, what they can do and like,  how they learn,  and who might be involved in their new venture.  The process concludes by identifying a specific business for development.

Researching Potential of the proposed venture involves finding out about what is needed to put the business in place: whether there is a market, availability of a location for operation, the kind of equipment and technical support needed and available, and the amount capital necessary for start up and operations.

Business Plan  Gathers all of the information obtained in research to develop an organized approach for starting up and operating the new business venture.  It will include a description of how the business will be organized, a time-line for goals and milestones, identifying partners (if any), who is responsible for what, a projected cash-flow, methods for promoting and delivering the product or service to the customer.

Capital Acquisition will involve assistance in compiling a business portfolio that will demonstrate economic viability, negotiating with prospective lender(s) or grantor(s) and establishing proper accounting safeguards.

Firming up the Support Team involves identifying recruiting, and setting up procedures of accountability for members of the individual’s support team.  The team will usually be comprised of both volunteers and paid supports and may perform roles needed by the business or provide skill building/personal assistance as stipulated in the person-centered plan.
Managing Ongoing Operations For some ventures Community  Enterprises staff may remain involved to assist in managing ongoing operations.

Outcomes
The expected outcome for the micro enterprise program is to ensure that every consumer is given the opportunity to pursue a productive and self-fulfilling career or business venture within the community.  Business ownership can offer:

●Increased income
●Better quality of life
●Greater self sufficiency
●Higher level of self-esteem / pride
●Financial independence / security
●Community connections - community interactions



How to Participate?

For additional information, contact Carrie Kerbrat at Community Enterprises for more details