How Aarti Sahgal bridges the gap between people with disabilities and promotes entrepreneurship

On today’s episode of The Small Business Show, we’re pleased to welcome back the Founder and CEO of Synergies Work, Aarti Sahgal. Sahgal’s Synergies SEED Fund helps give resources to disabled entrepreneurs. They have recently partnered with CareSource, the first organization to support their mission, and are offering a grant of $100,000 to help fund entrepreneurs with disabilities.

Key Takeaways 

1. Sahgal’s personal journey, inspired by her son with Down syndrome, led to the creation of Synergies Work. The organization focuses on bridging the gap between people with disabilities and the business community, emphasizing their entrepreneurial potential.

2. Synergies is an organization that challenges common stereotypes about people with disabilities by showcasing their entrepreneurial potential. It aims to create an ecosystem that supports individuals with disabilities in starting and scaling their businesses. 

3. Sahgal highlights the lack of resources and support for disabled entrepreneurs. Moreover, she notes that disabled entrepreneurs are disproportionately affected by the economic and social impacts while creating job opportunities and contributing to the economy.

4. To create an inclusive and supportive community, Synergies provides a platform for entrepreneurs with disabilities to connect, share resources, and support each other. This includes both online communities and physical programs like incubators and accelerators. 

5. Moving forward, Synergies aspires to expand its impact by increasing the number of businesses supported and addressing financial barriers through initiatives like the Synergies Seed Fund. The ultimate goal is to create a movement that promotes inclusivity and opportunity for people with disabilities in the entrepreneurial landscape.

"I believe that people with disabilities are born to be entrepreneurs." – Aarti Sahgal

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