Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Self-Employment Assistance from the Department of Services for the Blind

The Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) is home to the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program, whose purpose is the employment of its participants that is competitive as well as consistent with informed choice and individual strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities and capabilities.

DSB views self-employment as a viable employment outcome. Thus, the Department supports its participants in their self-employment ventures, recognizing that they are using their unique skills to achieve competitive employment while interacting with the non-disabled population.

For those participants who seek self-employment, VR assists them in:

Considering a range of employment options suited to their unique abilities and interests

Getting comprehensive information about self-employment

Assessing their entrepreneurial potential

Evaluating the viability of their business concept

Developing a Self-Employment Proposal

Obtaining the resources, technical assistance, training and other supports necessary to successfully launch, develop and/or sustain a business, and minimize financial risk