Morgan Tibbens is a young entrepreneur with Down syndrome who makes bath bombs, soaps, foot scrubs, and shower steamers in a variety of creative scents. Someday, she hopes to open her own brick-and-mortar shop to employ other people with disabilities. In the meantime, you can support her dream by buying a few products from Da Bombs for your own at-home spa day.
Check out Morgan’s Gift Box, $25, for a selection of her products.
When celebrity makeup artist Terri Bryant started to lose dexterity in her hands due to Parkinson’s, she set out to create inclusive makeup tools and products. With the help of their design team and ergonomic experts, Guide Beauty created adaptive beauty tools that are accommodating and guide the user’s hands.
Kohl Kreatives is on a mission to promote self-esteem and personal well-being by offering free workshops internationally for those in need of its services. The organization particularly serves individuals transitioning genders, those undergoing chemotherapy, and people with conditions that limit fine motor skills. With the launch of The Flex Collection, the organization provides makeup tools in addition to personalized online tutorials to help those with motor disabilities or illnesses use makeup brushes independently and confidently.
Through an adapted candle manufacturing process, ScentsAbility Candles provides meaningful training and employment opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Check out their Artisan page to meet the makers of these enticingly aromatic candles!
Queen Cosmetics was founded by Elimar “Ellie” Depaula, a disabled makeup artist with a mission that goes beyond personal success—it’s about celebrating and empowering a diverse community. As a Latina-owned brand, Queen Cosmetics is dedicated to breaking barriers in the beauty industry while giving voice to underrepresented groups. Ellie makes sure that her brand is focused on inclusivity, diversity, and self-expression.
Collettey’s Cookies is the brainchild of Collette Divitto, an entrepreneur and baker with Down syndrome. The company employs people with disabilities, and Colette was recently featured for her work on the docuseries Born For Business on Peacock. Her online shop offers cookies for humans (and dogs!) as well as other merchandise like books and apparel.
Bitty & Beau’s was founded by siblings with Down syndrome to create a space where people with disabilities are accepted in their local community through jobs and activism. Since 2016, Bitty, Beau, and their parents have expanded the franchise to 23 locations and 400 employees. Along with their delicious coffees, they sell coffee-related goodies, dog accessories, and “radically inclusive” clothing.
ExtraSpecialTeas is the creation of Cherri and Scott Sanes, who are motivated by a passion for tea and a desire to create a business that offers meaningful impact. Cherri, who has a background in special education, wanted to combine her love for tea with her commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities. Through her vision, ExtraSpecialTeas was born as a social enterprise that not only serves high-quality, handcrafted tea but also provides employment opportunities and day classes to adults with disabilities in Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
Furnace Hills Coffee is owned by Haven Camps, a year-round camp and retreat serving individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities located in Rome, New York. The company stands out for its commitment to creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. By partnering with local organizations, Furnace Hills Coffee provides job training and work experience to people with developmental disabilities, helping them build skills and gain independence. The company also focuses on small-batch roasting and fostering ethical relationships with coffee growers, ensuring fair prices and environmentally sustainable practices.
Gabi is an entrepreneur with Down syndrome based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Gabi's Grounds “promotes equal access to people with disabilities” in their workplace that sells bags, K-cups, teas, tea strainers, mugs, and much more. She has created her own special blend of organic Guatemalan and Sumatran coffee. When you make a purchase, your order will include a handwritten thank-you note from Gabi!
Joe Steffy, a young man with autism and Down syndrome, found his passion for popcorn and turned it into a thriving business. Joe’s love for making popcorn quickly grew into a way to bring joy to others while building his skills and independence. Poppin’ Joe’s not only offers delicious, hand-popped popcorn in a variety of flavors, but Joe’s vision for his company is to provide meaningful work opportunities for others, helping them gain confidence and real-world experience. Every bag of popcorn sold contributes to the business’ mission of empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Shemesh Farms in Malibu, California, was created to provide meaningful employment and community to individuals with diverse abilities. Their farm fellows, along with volunteers and staff, harvest and create spice blends, honey, and other organic products for individual orders or larger group purchases. Purchasing one of their products contributes to the continuation of their programming and the wages of their farm fellows.
SpectroDolce was created by Achieving True Self (ATS), an organization supporting hundreds of individuals and families with autism and/or intellectual disabilities through multiple programs in the Northeastern U.S. Their store in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, provides a supportive environment for disabled individuals to gain valuable workplace experience while preparing for careers in their chosen fields. Almost all of SpectroDolce’s staff members are adults with autism, and the company offers training, support, and meaningful job opportunities.
Evie Mitchell is a disabled romance author who is passionate about inclusion and accessibility while writing bold, heartfelt romances with a wide range of disability representation in her characters. Her All Access Series romance novels feature characters with disabilities, chronic illness, and mental health challenges who enjoy well-deserved happy endings.
The Framed Women of Ardmore House follows an autistic, hyperlexic editor who inherits a deteriorating English estate. She soon finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation after a family portrait disappears and a body is discovered. The story combines intrigue, family drama, and a clever protagonist, drawing readers into a world of mystery and unexpected twists. The author, Brandy Schillace, is an autistic, nonbinary author, historian, show-host, and editor.
Hannah is a bestselling author who writes romance with a twist, featuring a diverse mix of characters, including disabled, marginalized, and LGBTQIA+ folks. Her books bring all the swoon-worthy moments while keeping it real with the ups and downs of life. Her new book, Out on a Limb, is inspired by her experiences as a young disabled mother with limb differences.
Unbroken is an anthology that showcases disability in fiction through stories written by disabled creators, featuring disabled characters at the heart of each narrative. With tales spanning various genres, including first loves, friendships, war, travel, and more, the collection offers teen readers a look into the lives of disabled people across time—past, present, and future. Each author identifies as disabled in some way—whether physically, mentally, or neurodivergent—and their characters reflect this rich diversity.
Established in 2001, Art Enables is an art gallery and vocational arts program in Washington, DC, that provides opportunities for artists with disabilities to create, promote, and earn income from their unique and impactful artwork. The program helps artists develop essential skills, build relationships, and gain experience for a successful career in the arts. The organization works with artists facing a wide range of developmental and cognitive disabilities. Their online shop offers prints and original works from their artisans in an array of styles and mediums.
Deaf West Theatre was founded to act as an “artistic bridge between Deaf and hearing worlds” by bringing ASL and spoken English together in experiences inspired by Deaf culture. In partnership with artists Christine Sun Kim and Ravi Vasavan from Deaf Power, these limited-edition enamel pins contribute to their campaign focused on increasing training and employment opportunities for the Deaf community.
Nurturing Independence Through Artistic Development (NIAD) fosters creative expression, independence, and community integration for individuals with disabilities through its visual arts studio program located in Richmond, CA. NIAD encourages experimentation, self-expression, and collaboration, while prioritizing sustainability, communication and joy in their artists. Each piece in their Holiday Gift Guide is under $100 and highlights the work of an array of talented artists.
Sleepy Unicorn Studio is an LGBT-owned, disability-owned, and woman-owned small business run by Kimi Kinsey, who has narcolepsy, ADHD, and autism. With digital art being her passion, she creates fun and colorful designs that are printed on stickers, notebooks, Kindle case inserts, planners, reading log bookmarks, and more. Her relatable designs feature affirmations for the neurodivergent community.
Gracie’s Doggie Delights is run by Gracie, an entrepreneur from Watertown, Wisconsin, with Down syndrome. The business was inspired by her love of dogs, and giving them treats is one of her favorite things to do. Doggie Delights are only made with freeze-dried, USDA-inspected meat to maintain flavor and nutrition. The treats have a shelf life of six to eight months. Choose from varieties like Beef Liver, Chicken Breast, and Flavor Booster Pet Food Toppers.
Finley’s makes delicious pet treats while supporting various organizations that focus on empowering individuals with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They partner with Special Olympics and Best Buddies (to name a few) for initiatives that provide training, resources, and opportunities for disabled people to gain meaningful employment and build independent lives. Their most popular treat is the Finley’s Biscuit in the Peanut Butter & Pumpkin flavor, which you can get from their website as well as Target, Chewy, and Petco.
PawsAbilities is an employment program of Inclusion Connections, a nonprofit in Kansas City that provides meaningful jobs and independence for people with intellectual disabilities. Along with an incredible selection of all-natural dog treats, the PawsAbilities store sells adorable pet wear, housewares, apparel, and handmade toys.
Xan is a digital artist from Wisconsin diagnosed with autism, POTS, and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS). Through their Etsy shop, Xan sells keychain fidgets, fidget jewelry, stickers, water bottle bags, and more. Their designs and products feature an autumnal color palette and motifs, perfect for those who love rich, neutral colors and cozy vibes.
The products at Blissful Seeds of San Diego, CA, are handcrafted by skilled adults with autism and other developmental disabilities using natural and organic ingredients. Blissful Seeds helps nurture entrepreneurial spirits and offer tools, resources, and support to help individuals with disabilities realize their business dreams. Each item is designed to showcase the unique talents and strengths of the artisan.
Mara Ladines is a Deaf and Asian clothing designer based in New York City, where she owns a small clothing store in Brooklyn called By Mara. Her designs often feature the iconic "I Love You" symbol in American Sign Language, with products ranging from baby onesies to plush blankets. Launched in 2008 with only two products, By Mara has since expanded into a nationwide brand, now offering over 100 items that are available online, in stores, and at various festivals. For 15% off, use code UNDIVIDED15 at checkout (expires December 31, 2024).
Mychal's Learning Place is a nonprofit organization in Hawthorne, CA, dedicated to providing youth and young adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to develop life skills and achieve independence. Michal’s Learning Place offers a range of educational and vocational programs with personalized training and support. One program is Mychal’s Printing & Embroidery, a digital print company that produces custom stamped items like T-shirts, tote bags, and mugs for companies, groups, and events while employing young people with developmental disabilities.
Hannah, the brand’s founder, made Not Your Grandma’s Closet so that people who need compression socks regularly could have comfortable, fun options. She shares that in the early days of her Fibromyalgia journey, compression socks helped significantly but it wearing “beige, tight and itchy socks was torture.” Now Hannah’s brand has expanded beyond compression socks to sell earrings, necklaces, notepads, and more!
A student and maker with permanent disabilities, Passage Beading’s owner, Tayvie Van Eeuwen, is Métis and Ojibwe from the Saulteaux nation. Tayvie fashions handmade earrings that reflect her culture and artistry with supplies sourced from Indigenous Supplies, Beaded Edge Supply, or local craft stores.
Alexandra Adlawan is an autistic author and illustrator who completed her first book, Wild Imagination: The Adventures of Maddie and Albert, in 2017. Through her writing, she shares her journey on the autism spectrum and highlights the importance of inclusivity through her characters, Maddie, Albert, and their service dog Houdini. She is passionate about connecting with audiences at readings and events, and she believes in empowering others to share their unique abilities with the world.
Board & Measure is a Deaf and CODA-owned shop based in Michigan featuring handmade wooden products with ASL themes, including the “Welcome Sign” in varying colors and “ASL Hands” in the letters of your choice to adorn your wall. See the rest of their store here, which includes ornaments, keychains, decor, and much more.
Cerrie Burnell is a storyteller born with a limb difference whose writing celebrates imagination and diversity. Her thirteen children’s books, several of which feature the main character Harper, tell stories of fun, fantasy, and adventure. Having grown up without seeing children like her in the books she was reading, she made it her mission to create diverse stories because “every child deserves to have their life represented by the power and beauty of story.”
Little For Now, an online retailer that donates yearly to Down syndrome and autism charities, is owned by the parent of three kids with disabilities. Not only do they offer a wide range of eco-friendly products to get parents started in cloth diapering, but they also offer guides on how to do it. The company also has special needs products, including The Happy Mat for safe feeding and the Beco Toddler Carrier for carrying kids up to 60 pounds. BONUS: Little For Now is offering a coupon code just for Undivided readers! Use code Undivided2024 for 10% off anything in store, good through December 31, 2024.
Réka, an autistic artist, designs cute penguins on a variety of products with themes of acceptance, encouragement, self-love and understanding, affirmations, and mindfulness. Réka shares that her pieces are like “little self-care tools” inspired by her personal experience with the hope that her art will help “neurodivergent people, their loved ones, and therapists.” She sells calendars, communication cards, zines, coloring books, prints, tumbler wraps, mindfulness cards, journals, mood trackers, stickers, and more.
AbleGamers is a charity that helps gamers with disabilities create community through gaming by creating innovative solutions or finding the technology needed, all tailored to the gamer. AbleGamers was founded by Mark, a service-disabled veteran, when his friend Stephanie began to encounter barriers to gaming due to the progression of her multiple sclerosis. Seeing firsthand how disability can cause social isolation and exclusion, Mark and Stephanie set out to create “opportunities that enable play in order to combat social isolation, inclusive communities, and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.” In addition to developing customized solutions and connecting gamers with technology that meets their needs, AbleGamers offers peer counseling and works with gaming industry professionals and developers to make games accessible. Check out their website and Instagram.
Imperfect Inspiration founder and mom of five Brit Brown wasn’t diagnosed with ADHD until she was 34. Now, she designs products — including planners, workbooks, and goal charts — with neurodivergent kids and creatives in mind. In addition to her customizable ADHD planner starter kit, her site sells sensory boxes, fidgets, stickers, and more.
All Things Sensory Shop sells fidgets handmade by Alissa, who has sensory processing difficulties, anxiety, autism, and ADHD. When designing her products, Alissa makes it a priority that the fidgets be unique, functional, and affordable. Products such as weighted pop tabs and bumpy silicone twisting fidgets are not only sold in a variety of colors to suit individual tastes, but they also provide an effective tool for grounding, skin picking, and stimming. She also sells chewelry, spinners, marble mazes, shakers, grounding necklaces, and more.
Two Blind Brothers is the work of brothers Bryan and Bradford Manning from New York City. They are both legally blind and donate 100% of their profits to charitable foundations like the Foundation Fighting Blindness. They also work closely with other organizations supporting the blind community, including Industries of the Blind, which helps to make some of their products. Along with their adorable line of plush guide dogs, they offer soft and comfortable clothing and accessories that can be found in their online store.
There are so many incredible businesses owned by disabled individuals, or benefiting the disabled community, that have emerged over the last several years. We want to bring attention to as many of them as we possibly can! Check out the below list for additional businesses we want to spotlight.
The Arc of the United States
The Arc of the United States is a national nonprofit organization that advocates for and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by working to ensure that they have access to the resources, services, and opportunities they need to lead fulfilling lives. Their online store features baby onesies, clothing, hats, and accessories that celebrate their “Disability Rights Are Human Rights” motto.
Common Roots Farm
Common Roots Farm is an urban farm with a mission to provide opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to learn job skills, forge connections, and take part in paid farming internships. Their facilities are largely wheelchair-, walker-, and scooter-accessible, making it possible for more people to participate in their programs. Using their farm’s fruits and vegetables, Common Roots makes jams, syrups, and condiments.
John’s Crazy Socks
John Lee Cronin, who has Down syndrome, is the inspiration half of the father-son duo who founded John’s Crazy Socks. They sell a wide variety of funky men’s, women’s, and children’s socks—including, of course, crazy holiday socks. Each order is sent with candy and a handwritten thank-you note from John. The company donates 10% of all awareness socks to various applicable charities, and 5% of the proceeds are donated to the Special Olympics.
Little Red Hen
Little Red Hen is a nonprofit organization that provides employment for individuals with developmental disabilities in Chico, CA. 100% of the sales and donations made directly support programming for children and adults with developmental disabilities and help pay their employees’ wages. Check out Little Red Hen’s variety of household items and vintage shop.
Momentum Creative
Momentum Creative “supports a vigorous community of working artists with a variety of developmental challenges such as autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome, whose perspective is vital within the contemporary art world.” Their online gallery showcases the work of a vibrant group of artists who use varying mediums. Buying from their collection helps fund their ongoing work.
Seeds for Autism
Seeds for Autism is a program in Phoenix, Arizona, that helps young adults with autism create a path from "learning to earning" via education, vocational training, and social development. Their online store includes items handcrafted by students in their workshop who are learning artisanal skills. Their work includes items like metal-crafted jewelry, gardening supplies, soaps, and wine bottle stoppers.
Undivided
And last but not least…give yourself the gift of Undivided! Undivided, founded by parents raising children with disabilities, provides an innovative app, 1:1 parent coaching, and access to experts to help make life easier for families navigating California’s complex education, public benefits, and health insurance systems. Community membership is free, and higher tiers start at $99 per year for access to organizational tools, a digital workspace, advocacy services, and more.
Thank you to our supportive community at Undivided for connecting us with so many amazing creators!
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