Starting a business is both tough and scary, no doubt about it. But for people from marginalized communities, or disabled entrepreneurs, it can feel like you’re climbing a mountain with extra weight on your shoulders. It can be more of a struggle to get funding, more difficult to make the right connections… in addition to facing biases that just shouldn’t exist. The journey can really be frustrating. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone. With the right support, resources, and a little creativity, you can build something amazing and make a real impact in your community.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Support
Let’s be honest—getting a business off the ground isn’t a walk in the park. When you’re dealing with the extra hurdles, like limited resources or feeling like you’re not being taken seriously, it can feel even harder. However, there is help out there for those who seek it. Networking and mentors and funding opportunities, even business support services that actually get it. Finding the right help can make all the difference. You just have to know where to look and be willing to reach out.
Tackling the Tough Stuff
One of the biggest challenges marginalized business owners face is just getting access—to funding, solid advice, and the right connections. A lot of traditional business support just doesn’t consider the unique challenges some entrepreneurs deal with, which makes it tough to get ahead. That’s why having the right resources matters.
At Inclusive Solutions, we understand many of the struggles, because we’ve been there. We’d like to help take some of the weight off your shoulders; whether it’s handling bookkeeping, putting together a business plan, or just figuring out the next steps. As a small business ourselves, we fully understand how important it is to keep things affordable and practical.
There are also great resources out there, like ATB Financial, which offers free workshops and tools made for small business owners in Alberta. Taking advantage of these kinds of programs can make a huge difference when you’re trying to get things off the ground.
Why Inclusion Makes a Difference
When people see entrepreneurs who look like them, it makes dreams feel more possible. That’s why representation matters. When businesses grow within marginalized communities, they do more than just make money—they create jobs, support families, and build stronger communities. Did you know that Inclusive Solutions is founded by a female disabled entrepreneur?
On top of that, businesses that focus on inclusivity don’t just serve their communities better; they thrive. People want to support companies that make them feel welcome and valued, and it all starts with being intentional about who you hire, how you market, and who you serve.
If you’re a business owner, or entrepreneur, looking for support, you don’t have to do it alone. There are resources and people—like us at Inclusive Solutions—who are ready to help you break down barriers and build something meaningful.