A Qualitative Analysis of the Potential for Collaboration between Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies and Small Business Developers

Abstract

Self-employment is a significant economic trend. For a variety of reasons, self-employment may be particularly salient to people with disabilities. For a person working with a vocational rehabilitation agency, collaboration with a business consultant is an important component of the business development process to help insure success. However, quite often this step is not included in the process or is overlooked. This article reports on a qualitative study conducted to learn about collaborative efforts between Vocational Rehabilitation and business consultants such as Small Business Development Centers, and to assess the potential for strengthening resources available for persons with disabilities who wish to pursue entrepreneurship. Focus groups were conducted using knowledgeable and experienced participants from both service entities, as well as people with disabilities who are self-employed. Analysis of these data is presented, along with recommendations based upon the findings and the empirical literature on professional collaboration.