Washington State Department of Services for the Blind -- Business Enterprise Program

Business Enterprise Program

The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) trains and licenses legally blind people to manage snack/gift shops, espresso stands and food service facilities in government buildings. Once vendors are licensed, they can compete with other licensed vendors for any facility that becomes available.

The Randolph Sheppard Act, adopted by Congress in 1936, authorizes vendors who are legally blind to operate vending facilities on federal property. The BEP program in Washington also has first priority to operate food services in state and local government buildings.

Licensed vendors are responsible for the success of their businesses. The BEP program ensures that applicants get the training they need to effectively operate and manage a restaurant, provides the essential pieces of food service equipment for each specific location, and provides ongoing management assistance to blind vendors.

While applicants are in training, Department of Services for the Blind evaluates their progress. When the training is completed they are required to pass a certification test to receive their licenses. To apply, qualified participants must be U. S. citizens, complete a BEP application checklist, and be referred by their vocational rehabilitation counselor.