DisabledPreneurs is a free, non-profit business directory aimed at empowering and supporting disabled founders and business owners. Here, we share why a disabled business directory is needed, how the platform was formed, and how it can benefit your business.
Why is a disabled business directory needed?
Disabled business owners make up 25% of small businesses in the UK yet represent just 8.6% of total small business turnover. 84% of disabled founders feel that they don’t have access to the same resources and opportunities as non-disabled founders.
Many disabled people feel that the barriers to entry for running a business are just too high and find it difficult to get started.
DisabledPreneurs wants to change that by providing a platform for people to promote and advertise their business and creating a supportive community where everyone can thrive.
Meet DisabledPreneurs founder Mark Esho
DisabledPreneurs was founded by Dr Mark Esho, a disabled businessman, inspirational speaker and bestselling author.
When Mark was 5 years old, he contracted Polio, paralysing him from the neck down. He was given a 10% chance of survival. Over time, he regained some movement in his upper body. Throughout his childhood, he received harassment and abuse because of his disability and skin colour.
Determined to succeed, he received an MBA in Business Administration and Management in 1994 from De Montfort University, yet struggled to find work due to racial and disability discrimination.
He eventually found work as a finance manager for a disability charity, where he worked for several years.
The effects of Post-Polio Syndrome began to make employment difficult, so he decided to start a business himself that would allow more flexibility. He came across many of the challenges that disabled entrepreneurs face. These included access to funding, training, support and networking.
Mark’s first business failed, but he didn’t give up. He started his first successful business – Easy Internet Services – in 2001 and has founded many others since then. In 2022, he received an MBE for services to business.
He is currently on the steering board of The Lilac Review, which is carrying out research into the challenges and opportunities that disabled founders face to address inequality and break down the barriers experienced by disabled-led businesses.
He is passionate about helping other disabled business owners succeed, and in May 2024, DisabledPreneurs was launched.
DisabledPreneurs’ mission is to champion the services offered by disabled business owners and facilitate connections within the community and with the broader public. This platform allows entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses, network, and forge partnerships.
By amplifying the voices and success stories of disabled entrepreneurs, DisabledPreneurs contributes to a more inclusive and vibrant entrepreneurial landscape. Its goal is to break down barriers, foster collaboration and promote diversity in entrepreneurship.
How can I get involved?
You can register or claim your listing by visiting disabledpreneurs.com.
DisabledPreneurs offers its members guest posting opportunities, featured listings, and promotion via social media. If you are interested in sponsoring the directory, please email disabledpreneursuk@gmail.com
If you’re a member of the directory and you’re posting on social media about events or news about your business, tag us in the post and we’ll share with our network.
You can also browse disabled-led businesses, including public speakers, virtual assistants, artists, writers, media specialists, web designers and many more.
What’s next for DisabledPrenurs?
DisabledPreneurs has recently announced a partnership with Hatch Enterprise, which is a leading organisation dedicated to empowering diverse entrepreneurs through resources, mentorship, and community support.
DisabledPreneurs has lots planned to support its members, including short courses and coaching. Listing your business on the directory is completely free, so what do you have to lose?
For more information, visit the DisabledPreneurs website and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn & Youtube.