Business support programme for people with disabilities
Applications for the Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme are open until 17 July 2026.
Applications for the Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme are open until 17 July 2026.
The Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme is a business support initiative for people with disabilities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The programme aims to break down barriers and ensure that disabled people have access to the skills and support they need to become successful entrepreneurs.
The Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme is supported through a collaboration with the Department for the Economy, Go Succeed and Disability Action.
Who can apply?
The Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme is open to any person with a disability who wishes to start their own business. It is open to those who live on the island of Ireland, so applications are encouraged from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
How does the programme work?
The programme is specially designed for people at the early stages of developing a business idea. Lectures take place online every 12 weeks, running from September through to December 2026. Participants also have the opportunity to receive an accredited award upon completion.
The programme is fully funded by AIB.
How to apply
The programme is significantly oversubscribed each year, so early applications are advised.
The deadline for applications is Friday 17 July 2026.
Apply to the Self-Employment for Persons with Disabilities Programme 2026.
Successful applicants will be selected based solely on the quality of their business idea.
First published 9 June 2025.