ITI CIRCLE is an 8-week course to help I/DD participants build the basic skills for starting a business.
Dates
9/30 – 11/18/26
Every Wednesday
10am – 12pm
Main Ideas
- Develop strategies and self-awareness
- Take concrete steps to develop a business idea
- Get mentoring by other entrepreneurs, experts, and I/DD peers
ITI CIRCLE is created by Independence Through Interdependence, an autistic and ADHD team dedicated to neurodivergent wellbeing. ITI CIRCLE is also supported by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.
Why entrepreneurship for I/DD folks?
A regular job might not work for everyone. Loud noises and busy places, trouble with rides and schedules, not enough support, and unfair interview processes can make jobs like this hard for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Starting your own business is another way to earn money and feel good about your work. When you are your own boss, you can…
- Set up a workspace that fits your needs
- Feel more in control and confident
- Meet people with the same needs and interests, on your own terms
- Help solve problems in your community
Starting a business is also a difficult task, and it can feel scary to begin. ITI CIRCLE will teach you the basic skills to plan and start your own business.
What ITI CIRCLE gives entrepreneurs
Resources general business and I/DD-specific
Trainings and Mentorship 8 online sessions by and for I/DD entrepreneurs
Microgrants $1500 x 20 grants
I/DD Entrepreneur Community
Networking Opportunities
Course Structure
Every week will have the same 3 components: Class, Pre-Work, and Office Hours. Everything is online.
Class
2 Hours / Week
- 8 virtual sessions
- Cover learning goals
- Do activities
- Mentor from the business community shares their experiences and expertise
Pre-Work
Up to 4 Hours / Week
- Videos, readings, podcasts, and more to prepare for upcoming class
- Finish activities from class
Office Hours
1 Hour / Week
Optional
For extra help if needed
Curriculum
Classes are every Wednesday for 8 weeks
Details are subject to change
9/30
MINDSET
Yes, You Can Be An Entrepreneur
10/7
IDEATE
Designing Your Entrepreneur Life
10/14
PRIORITIZE
Creating Your Strategy for Success, Part One
10/21
BUDGET
Creating Your Strategy for Success, Part Two
10/28
BENEFITS
Show Me the Money, Part One
11/4
MICROGRANT
Show Me the Money, Part Two
11/11
STORY
Telling Your Story
11/18
NEXT STEPS
Bringing It All Together
Who is a good fit for ITI CIRCLE?
The first cohort will have 25 participants. To participate, you must be…
- An Ohio resident
- 18+ years old
- Identify as having an intellectual or developmental disability (includes Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, ADHD, learning disabilities, and more)
- At least 6th grade-level comprehension for reading and math
- Excited to find or polish an idea for their business and learn practical skills
- Able to focus for 2-hour block with breaks
How do I apply to participate?
Apply here! Applications open Monday, August 17, 2026 at 12pm EST and close on Monday, August 31, 2026 at 12pm EST.