A step-by-step program for adults with developmental disabilities who want to turn what they love into a small business that is realistic, supported, and truly theirs.
Book a meeting See what you'll learnYou already have skills and interests. Maybe you make cards, bake, take photos, care for animals, or create jewelry. Heartful Ventures helps you shape that into a business that fits your life, your energy, and your goals. We start with your dream and build it into a plan you can really do.
People on ODSP can earn up to $1,000 a month in net earnings with no reduction to their ODSP income support.
ODSP looks at what you earn minus approved business expenses, like supplies. Your caseworker confirms which expenses count.
Using your own full legal name? No Ontario registration needed. Using a business name? Registration is about $60 for 5 years.
Nine hands-on steps, taught from real experience building a business from scratch.
I built Heartful Abilities from the ground up: the website, the videos, the Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube pages, the online shop, and ticketed workshops. Everything in this program is something I have done myself, and I'll walk beside you as you do it too.
Darlene, Founder of Heartful Abilities. Over 35 years supporting seniors and people with developmental disabilities.
9 sessions of about 2 hours, in small groups of up to 5 people. Pay for the full program upfront for $340 and save $20.
Extra hands-on help building your website, filming video, or setting up your shop.
We come to you. Contact us for a group rate.
A new group begins once 5 people have signed up. Book a meeting to add your name to the list, and we'll let you know the start date and location as soon as the group is full. No payment is needed until your group is full and confirmed.
Passport funding may cover this program. Check with your Passport agency or broker. A limited number of reduced-cost spots are available for people without funding. Website, domain, and supply costs are separate.
Participants, families, caregivers, and support agencies are all welcome to reach out.
Book a meeting Email DarleneHeartful Abilities offers guidance and coaching, not legal, tax, or ODSP advice. Every participant should speak with their ODSP caseworker before starting a business and report all earnings. Profit above $1,000 a month reduces ODSP support by 75 cents for each extra dollar, and business income is still reported on your yearly tax return. Rules can change, so always check the current rules at ontario.ca.