Start at the top

The Federal government is an amazing source of money, other kinds of assistance, and more money -- if you know where to look.

I recommend: U.S. Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy offers a quick guide to Small Business and Self Employment for People with Disabilities, including a link to its Small Business and Self-Employment Service that hooks disabled entrepreneurs up with resources for funding, rehab, and other needs. DisabilityInfo.Gov's Self-Employment & Entrepreneurship site is another doorway to Federal programs supporting disabled entrepreneurs.

Being a veteran helps

Not surprisingly, a host of business-building resources are available to you if you are not only disabled, but also a veteran.

I recommend: Check out the Center for Veterans Enterprise from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where the Vendor Information Pages list businesses that are at least 51% owned by veterans -- Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) and Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). Not only can you learn about other disabled-owned businesses there, but you can add your own to the list, which is searched by Federal agencies looking for veteran-owned companies to do business with (to comply with laws requiring them to do so). Still more help is available from the Veterans Business Network and HireVetsFirst.

Borrow money

If your business is at the startup phase, capital is your biggest concern.

I recommend: Disabled ownership is one of the qualifying factors the U.S. Small Business Administration considers in guaranteeing "7(a)" loans to help small businesses get approved by lenders for startup capital.

Save up while on SSI

A deliberate loophole in the rules governing Social Security benefits can enable you to save up startup money.

I recommend: The Social Security Administration's Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS) allows disabled people to set aside income and/or resources for a specific period of time to realize a "work goal," such as going to school or starting a business. By eliminating the penalties for income that might normally disqualify or reduce SSI or SSDI benefits, PASS enables you to earn and keep your startup money without threatening your benefits in the meantime.

Commune with colleagues

The best source for advice is always those who have already been where you are going.

I recommend: Check out the Chamber of Commerce for Individuals with Disabilities and the Self-Employment for People with Disabilities Yahoo! Group.