Journey 2 Success Academy
Application and Program Overview
About Journey 2 Success (J2S)
At Journey 2 Success, we empower entrepreneurs with disabilities to build sustainable businesses that support their lives, health, and financial independence. We recognize the unique barriers faced by disabled entrepreneurs, and we are here to dismantle those barriers with support, mentorship, and community.
Our Academy provides a clear roadmap: from business idea to business plan, from branding to marketing, and finally to launching or scaling a business with the ability to seek funding, grants, and loans.
Maria Chapman stands holding a book and smiling
at the camera. She's wearing white top and pants and navy blazer.
You are not alone.
Your journey starts here.
How the Program Works
Step 1: Application
Submit an Application Online: Tell us about your background, your business idea (or even just your dreams!), your disability-related needs, and your goals.
Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with physical disabilities who are looking to create or grow service-based businesses.
Review Process: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We seek individuals who show drive, resilience, and the desire to build a business that supports both life and health.
Step 2: Online Coursework (Asynchronous)
Once accepted, participants will:
Gain access to Journey 2 Success Academy, an online, accessible learning platform.
Complete a guided, self-paced course moving through:
Business Ideation and Validation
Business Planning Fundamentals (You’ll end with a real business plan)
Branding, Positioning, and Messaging for Disability-Centered Entrepreneurship
Marketing and Visibility Strategies
Financial Literacy for Entrepreneurs
How to Find and Apply for Funding, Grants, and Loans
Note: You’ll have check-ins, community support, and optional live sessions in our Facebook group for deeper dives.
Step 3: Coaching & Mentorship
After completing the J2S Academy, participants are invited to apply for our 1:1 mentorship and coaching programs.
1:1 Coaching Sessions: Personalized support from successful disabled entrepreneurs
Business Plan Review: Get feedback and suggestions tailored to your needs.
Ongoing Mentorship: Community-building through peer support groups and expert mentors.
Step 4: Building Your Launchpad
Guidance on setting up LLCs, sole proprietorships, and nonprofit structures (if needed).
Branding and Website Basics (with templates and resources).
Help preparing materials to apply for grants, microloans, and business development programs.
Startup funding to help you build your dream.
OUTCOMES
Upon completing the J2S Academy, participants will:
Have a fully developed business plan.
Understand branding and marketing essentials.
Know the exact steps to seek funding and operational support.
Be ready to launch, scale, or transition into full-time entrepreneurship at a pace that supports their health needs.
Our ultimate goal is to create autonomy,
financial security, and well-being through
accessible entrepreneurship.
Journey 2 Success Academy — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply to Journey 2 Success?
Journey 2 Success is designed for mid-career individuals with physical disabilities who are ready to transition from traditional employment into entrepreneurship. Whether you have an idea for a service-based business or simply a desire to create a sustainable work-from-home career, you are welcome to apply. You do not need to be receiving disability benefits or have a declaration of disability from Social Security. Self-reporting your disability is enough to get started with us.
What types of businesses do you support?
We primarily support service-based businesses such as:
Bookkeeping
Medical Billing
Copywriting and Ghostwriting
SEO/Marketing Services
Virtual Assistance
Web Design
Social Media Management
Online Tutoring
If you have a different idea, we encourage you to apply—creativity and diversity are welcome!
What does the application process involve?
Applicants fill out an online form providing basic information about their background, goals, and business ideas (even if those ideas are still forming). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Selected participants will be invited to join the program.
Is the coursework live or self-paced?
The coursework is asynchronous (self-paced), allowing participants to move through the material on their own schedule. Live optional check-ins, office hours, and mentorship sessions are offered for added support.
What will I learn during the program?
Participants will move through:
Business ideation and validation
Business planning (including writing a formal business plan)
Branding, positioning, and marketing strategies
Financial literacy and budgeting for business owners
How to apply for grants, loans, and other funding opportunities
Strategies for sustainable growth while supporting your health needs
What kind of support will I receive?
1:1 coaching with experienced entrepreneurs
Peer community of disabled business builders
Access to templates, checklists, and tools
Assistance with business setup (LLC registration, branding, website basics)
Help navigating funding and grant applications
Is there any cost to participate?
The core Journey 2 Success Academy program is grant-supported, meaning there is no tuition cost for selected participants. However, participants must be willing to actively engage with the coursework and coaching to retain their spot.
Do I need a fully developed business idea to apply?
No! If you have the desire to build a business but aren't sure where to start, that’s okay. Part of our coursework will help you refine your idea and build a strong foundation.
Will the program affect my Social Security benefits?
Our program focuses on helping participants create businesses that fit their lives, including those receiving disability benefits. However, starting or running a business can impact your benefits depending on your earnings. We encourage you to consult with a benefits counselor for personalized advice.
How does Journey 2 Success help with funding?
While we don’t directly fund businesses, we:
Help participants build strong business plans
Offer guidance on identifying and applying for grants, microloans, and funding programs
Provide letters of recommendation or verification of program completion when needed for applications
What happens after I complete the program?
Graduates leave with:
A business plan ready to present to lenders, grantors, or investors
A clear roadmap for launching or scaling
Connections to ongoing mentorship and peer networks
Access to a library of resources to support continued growth
How do I get started?
Apply through our online application form. After submission, you will receive communication about next steps, including interviews and onboarding into the Journey 2 Success Academy.
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