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From Passion to Profit: How to Turn Your Talents into a Thriving Business as an NDIS Participant

September 25, 20244 min read

"Your passion is your greatest asset. Turn it into a business, and you'll never work a day in your life." - Debbie Mewes

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Many people dream of turning their passions into a thriving business, but for participants of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), this dream can feel more like a distant goal. The good news is that the NDIS & Phoenix Entrepreneurs offers a unique opportunity for individuals with disabilities to use their hobbies, skills, and passions to build sustainable, fulfilling businesses. Whether you're an artist, a tech enthusiast, or a wellness advocate, your talent can become a profitable venture. Here’s how you can make it happen.

Step 1: Identify Your Passion and Strengths

The first step to turning your talents into a business is to identify what you love doing and what you're naturally good at. Passion is what drives you to put in the effort required to succeed in business, while your strengths will give you the confidence to tackle challenges. Whether it's crafting, baking, offering technical support, or providing care and coaching to others, focusing on what you enjoy and excel at is key.

Step 2: Research Your Market and Opportunity

Once you've identified your passion, it's important to research the market. Ask yourself: Who needs your product or service? Are there already businesses doing something similar? How can you differentiate yourself? Look for ways to align your passion with market demand. With Phoenix Entreprenerus the NDIS can fund supports that assist with entrepreneurial efforts.

Step 3: Start Small and Build Consistency

Many successful businesses start as side projects or hobbies. You don’t need to go all-in from day one. Start by offering your products or services on a small scale, testing the market, and refining your approach. This is also a great way to build confidence and gather feedback that will help you grow. With each step, you'll gain more insight into what works and what doesn't, allowing you to gradually expand your business. Phoenix Entrepreneurs works with you at your pace.

Step 4: Utilise NDIS Supports and Funding

The NDIS offers a range of supports that can help you on your entrepreneurial journey. Employment supports, assistive technology, and funding for coaching can all contribute to building your business, Phoenix Entrepreneurs packages this together for you to make it easy and accesseble. As a participant, you can access all the resources that assist with business training, mentoring, and building systems for your business.

NDIS participants are also encouraged to engage in meaningful work and contribute to society, and what better way to do this than by building a business around your unique talents? The funding can cover tools and services that help you create your dream business.

Step 5: Create a Solid Business Plan

Once you have a clear vision for your business, it's time to create a business plan. This doesn't have to be complicated—start with your goals, target market, revenue streams, and operational needs. Think about the long-term growth of your business and what steps are required to get there. Planning will help you stay organised and focused as you build your business.

Step 6: Build a Support Network

No business succeeds in isolation. Building a network of support is crucial, especially as an NDIS participant. Phoenix Entrepreneurs, for example, offers coaching and guidance for those on the NDIS, helping you navigate the entrepreneurial landscape while providing the systems and support to succeed. Connect with other entrepreneurs, join online communities, and reach out for mentorship. A strong support network will help you overcome challenges and grow faster.

Step 7: Embrace Digital Technology

Technology has made it easier than ever to start and grow a business. Whether it's setting up an e-commerce website, promoting your services on social media, or using software to automate tasks, the digital world is full of tools that can simplify your operations. Phoenix Entrepreneurs builds the systems tailored to your needs, allowing you to use tools that make it easier for you to work independently.

Step 8: Stay Committed and Adaptable

The journey from passion to profit requires commitment and adaptability. There will be obstacles along the way, but by staying focused on your goals and being willing to pivot when necessary, you'll be able to overcome them. Entrepreneurship is all about learning and growing, so embrace each challenge as an opportunity to become stronger. Your Phoenix Entrepreneur coach is with you every step of your entrepreneurial path.

Step 9: Celebrate Your Wins

Finally, don't forget to celebrate your wins, both big and small. Every new client, sale, or achievement is a testament to your hard work and determination. As an NDIS participant, turning your talents into a business not only offers financial benefits but also boosts your self-confidence, increases your independence, and helps you feel more connected to your community.

Conclusion

Turning your passion into a profitable business as an NDIS participant is entirely possible with the right mindset, support, and strategy. By focusing on your strengths, leveraging NDIS supports, and taking consistent steps towards your goals, you can build a business that brings both financial rewards and personal fulfilment. Now is the time to take action and turn your talents into a thriving business that works for you book a call with Phoenix Entrepreneurs today!

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Debbie Mewes

CEO of Phoenix Entrepreneurs

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What is Phoenix and what do you do??

We are a dedicated service provider committed to empowering individuals within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit and start their own micro-businesses.

At Phoenix, we understand the importance of independence and self-determination, which is why we offer personalised consultations, professional business setup, ongoing support, and a dedicated business directory to connect our clients with potential customers and supporters.

Our mission is simple yet profound: to help NDIS participants turn their skills, passions, and ideas into successful ventures, all while gaining greater independence, financial freedom, and a sense of accomplishment.

Whether you dream of crafting handmade products, providing specialised services, or sharing your expertise with the world, Phoenix is here to guide you every step of the way. With our team of experienced support coordinators, tech and design experts, and marketing professionals, we provide comprehensive support tailored to your unique needs and aspirations. From brainstorming innovative business ideas to creating a professional online presence and beyond, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your entrepreneurial goals and build a brighter future.

Who is eligible to participate in your program?

At Phoenix, we believe that entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or abilities.

Our program is specifically designed to support individuals within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) who are eager to explore the world of entrepreneurship and start their own micro-businesses.

Eligibility for our program is open to any NDIS participant who has the desire and determination to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Whether you have a specific business idea in mind or are simply curious about the possibilities, we welcome individuals of all skill levels and interests to join us on this journey.

Our dedicated support coordinators are here to work closely with you, providing personalised guidance, resources, and encouragement every step of the way.

We believe in the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives, and we're committed to helping you unlock your full potential and achieve your business goals.If you're ready to take the first step towards entrepreneurship and embark on an exciting new adventure, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's explore the possibilities together and turn your dreams into reality with Phoenix

How does the consultation process work?

At Phoenix, we understand that every individual is unique, and we tailor our consultation process to meet your specific needs and aspirations.

Our goal is to provide you with personalised guidance and support as you embark on your entrepreneurial journey.

The consultation process typically begins with an initial meeting between you and Debbie our CEO. During this meeting, we'll take the time to get to know you, understand your interests, skills, and goals, and discuss your vision for starting a micro-business. We'll work closely with you to identify your strengths and areas of interest, explore potential business ideas, and develop a clear plan of action to turn your dreams into reality.

Whether you have a specific business concept in mind or are looking for inspiration, our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.

We then book you a 'Meet & Greet' with the coach you will be working with to explore this further. If you choose to move forward after your meet and greet we will onboard you and get you all set up for success.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to launch and grow a successful micro-business. By working together, we can create a personalised roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey and support you in achieving your business goals.

What types of businesses can I start with your support?

At Phoenix, we believe that entrepreneurship should be as diverse and varied as the individuals pursuing it.

Our goal is to provide you with the support and resources you need to explore your interests, unleash your creativity, and start a business that aligns with your passions and goals.With our support, you can start virtually any type of micro-business that suits your skills, interests, and aspirations.

Here are just a few examples of the types of businesses you can start with our support:

Handcrafted Products: Whether you're skilled in woodworking, pottery, jewelry making, or another craft, you can start a business selling your handmade creations online or at local markets.

Service-Based Businesses: If you have expertise in a particular area such as tutoring, personal training, pet sitting, or event planning, you can start a service-based business providing your services to clients in your community.

Online Retail: With the rise of e-commerce, there are endless opportunities to start an online retail business selling products in niche markets such as eco-friendly products, specialty foods, or unique gifts. We also have a specially built dropshipping and print on demand portal to make these options easy to manage.

Consulting or Coaching: If you have knowledge or expertise in a specific field such as business, marketing, health, or personal development, you can start a consulting or coaching business offering your services to individuals or businesses seeking guidance and support.

Creative Services: If you have skills in graphic design, photography, writing, or other creative fields, you can start a business offering your services to clients for projects such as branding, content creation, or marketing materials.

These are just a few examples, and the possibilities are truly endless.

Whatever your interests, skills, or passions may be, we're here to help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

Our experienced support coordinators will work closely with you to explore your options, develop a business plan, and provide the guidance and resources you need to launch and grow your business with confidence.

If you're ready to take the first step towards entrepreneurship and start your own micro-business, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's work together to bring your vision to life and build a brighter future with Phoenix!

Do I need any prior business experience to participate?

No prior business experience? No problem!

At Phoenix, we believe that entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or embarking on your very first business venture, our program is designed to support individuals at all levels of experience and expertise.

Our dedicated support coordinators are here to guide you every step of the way, providing personalised assistance, resources, and encouragement tailored to your unique needs and aspirations. Whether you have a specific business idea in mind or are simply exploring the possibilities, we're here to help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

With our support, you'll gain access to valuable insights, tools, and resources to help you navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.

From developing a business plan to setting up your online presence and beyond, we'll be there to provide the guidance and support you need to succeed. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or embarking on your very first business venture, our program is designed to support individuals at all levels of experience and expertise.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to launch and grow a successful micro-business, regardless of your prior experience.

So if you're ready to take the first step towards entrepreneurship, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's explore the possibilities together and turn your dreams into reality with Phoenix

How long does it take to set up a business with your support?

At Phoenix, we understand that starting a business is an exciting but complex process, and the timeline for setup can vary depending on several factors, including the nature of the business, your level of preparation, and external factors such as regulatory requirements.

Our goal is to provide you with the support and resources you need to launch your business successfully while also ensuring that the process is efficient and streamlined.

While the exact timeline may vary from one individual to another, we strive to make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible.

Typically, the setup process begins with an initial consultation to discuss your business ideas and goals. From there, we'll work closely with you to develop a customised plan of action, including steps such as business registration, creating a business plan, designing a website, developing marketing materials, and more.

The duration of the setup process can vary depending on the complexity of your business and the extent of support and assistance you require. In some cases, it may take a couple of months to complete the setup process, while in others, it may take longer.

Throughout the process, our experienced team will be there to guide you, answer your questions, and provide support every step of the way.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge, skills, and resources you need to launch your business with confidence and success.If you're ready to take the first step towards entrepreneurship and start your own micro-business, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's work together to bring your vision to life and build a brighter future with Phoenix!

What ongoing support do you provide after the business is set up?

At Phoenix, our commitment to your success doesn't end once your business is set up.

We believe in providing ongoing support and guidance to help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve your business goals.

After your business is set up, you can expect to receive continued support from our experienced team of support coordinators and business experts. Our ongoing support services include:

Regular Check-Ins: We'll schedule regular check-in meetings to discuss your progress, address any challenges or concerns you may have, and provide guidance and encouragement to keep you on track towards your goals.

Business Coaching: Our support coordinators will provide personalised business coaching and mentoring to help you refine your business strategy, identify growth opportunities, and overcome any obstacles you may encounter along the way.

Resource Sharing: We'll share valuable resources, tools, and best practices to help you optimise your business operations, improve your marketing efforts, and maximise your potential for success.

Networking Opportunities: We'll facilitate networking opportunities to connect you with other entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and potential collaborators who can support you and help you grow your business.

Marketing Assistance: We'll provide ongoing assistance with marketing your business, including strategies for promoting your products or services, expanding your customer base, and increasing your online visibility.

Continued Learning: We'll offer access to workshops, webinars, and educational resources to help you further develop your skills, stay informed about industry trends, and continue learning and growing as an entrepreneur.

Our goal is to be your trusted partner and ally in your entrepreneurial journey, providing the support, guidance, and resources you need to thrive in business.

Whether you're facing challenges or celebrating successes, we'll be there every step of the way to help you achieve your goals and build a brighter future with Phoenix!If you're ready to take your business to the next level and access ongoing support from our experienced team, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's continue the journey together and make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality with Phoenix

How can I access the business directory you mentioned?

You can access this business directory here at https://phoenixentrepreneurs.com.au/directory or click on 'Directory' in the navigation bar. Your business will have its own hosted page as well as appearing in the directory. This business directory will be promoted via social media ads and media engagements, so people wanting to support your business will know where to go.

What makes Phoenix different from other support services?

At Phoenix, we understand that there are many support services available to individuals within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), but we believe that our approach sets us apart in several key ways.

Personalised Approach: Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, we take a personalised approach to each individual we support. We recognize that every person is unique, with their own set of skills, interests, and aspirations. That's why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and goals, providing personalised consultations, guidance, and support every step of the way.

Comprehensive Services: Our program offers a comprehensive range of services to support you at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey. From initial consultations to business setup, ongoing support, and marketing assistance, we provide all the tools and resources you need to succeed in business.

Experienced Team: Our team consists of experienced support coordinators, business experts, and professionals with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in entrepreneurship. We're passionate about helping you achieve your goals, and we'll leverage our collective experience to provide you with the guidance and support you need to thrive.

Business Directory: In addition to our core services, we also offer a dedicated business directory to connect you with potential customers and supporters. This unique feature sets us apart from other support services and provides you with valuable exposure and networking opportunities for your business.

Commitment to Inclusivity: At Phoenix, we're committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We believe that entrepreneurship should be accessible to all, regardless of background, abilities, or experience, and we're dedicated to breaking down barriers and empowering individuals to achieve their dreams.

Long-Term Support: Our support doesn't end once your business is set up. We provide ongoing support and guidance to help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and continue to grow and succeed in business. Whether you're facing challenges or celebrating successes, we'll be there every step of the way to support you on your journey. You can choose to check in with our 'entrepreneur support' weekly or monthly, whatever you need to stay on track and build your business.

Overall, what sets Phoenix apart is our commitment to your success, our personalised approach, and our comprehensive range of services designed to empower you to achieve your entrepreneurial dreams. If you're ready to take the first step towards entrepreneurship and start your own micro-business, we invite you to reach out to us today. Let's explore the possibilities together and turn your dreams into reality with Phoenix

Can I combine my NDIS funding with your services?

Yes we work this program of support, building of your business, and continued ongoing support within the NDIS framework. Based off an existing program for entreprenurs this has been adapted for participants of the NDIS to help them get self sufficient with their own ventures.

Hourly rate set & paid by the NDIS for the front end consultations & support for specialised employment assistance. This includes the specialised technical knowledge support staff require to build out your business assets in a professional & timely manner.

We anticipate for most people 4 hours a week 2 hours one on one with yourself, and 2 hours back end support & design staff building your business assets.

Done For You. If you are requiring the 'Done For You' option our support worker will discuss elements of how you want your business to look operate, feel etc and our team will build the assets. Our support staff will also help you monitor orders, emails & other business communication as it comes into your CRM, essentially working side by side with you in your business.

Done With You. If you are more technically minded and would love the opportunity to not only build your business, but also learn skills like building websites, creating automation, forms, surveys, online courses and more then one of our specialised coaches with full tech knowledge will be assigned to help you. You will gain a full working knowledge of our software and this can also open up other opportunities for you in the online space.

Weekly Check-In: Once your business is set up and launched, if you would like your Entrepreneurial Support to check in weekly to just touch base and help you with anything you need. You can arrange this service ongoing. Things that we can help you with once you are up and running, are your emails, responding to clients, adding images or new pages to your website, adding new products to your website, adding new content to your course or membership, support with your marketing, helping you with your social media and ads. Consider this you own private support staff helping your run your business.

Community Get-Together: We also have a monthly free community get together open to all Phoenix entrepreneurs and our entrepreneur from our GEM software. A time to share ideas, wins and help each other feel supported in their businesses.

Is Phoenix available nationwide?

Yes, Phoenix is proud to offer our services nationwide, providing support to individuals within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) across the country.

Whether you're located in a major city, regional area, or remote location, you can access our services and support to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. We understand the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, which is why we're committed to serving individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their geographic location.

No matter where you are in Australia, you can count on Phoenix to provide you with the guidance, resources, and support you need to start and grow your own micro-business.

Our team is equipped to work with individuals nationwide, leveraging digital communication tools and remote support services to ensure that you receive the same high level of service, regardless of your location.

Whether you prefer virtual consultations, phone calls, or email correspondence, we're here to accommodate your needs and support you every step of the way.

If you're ready to take the first step towards entrepreneurship and start your own micro-business, we invite you to reach out to us today.If you require physical assistance we can co-ordinate with your support worker to help them understand what you need while creating your business.Wherever you are in Australia, let's explore the possibilities together and turn your dreams into reality with Phoenix

Do you offer any resources or workshops for business development?

Yes, absolutely!

At Phoenix, we're committed to providing comprehensive support for your entrepreneurial journey. We offer a variety of resources and workshops specifically designed to help you develop and grow your business. These resources may include:

Online Resources: We provide access to a wide range of online resources, including articles, guides, templates, and videos, covering topics such as business planning, market research, branding, and social media marketing. These resources are available 24/7 for your convenience and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.

Networking Opportunities: We facilitate networking events and opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential collaborators. Networking is a valuable way to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build relationships that can support your business growth.

One-on-One Support: In addition to group workshops and resources, we offer one-on-one support from experienced business advisors and mentors. These personalised consultations provide tailored guidance and advice to address your specific needs and challenges.

Specialised Training Programs: We may offer specialised training programs focused on specific topics or industries to help you acquire new skills and knowledge relevant to your business. These programs may include intensive workshops, courses, or seminars delivered by industry experts.

Shared Working Space: Our future plans also include a series of 'shared working space environments for our participants to enjoy! Dog friendly with up to the minute technology, meeting rooms, private spaces and cafe. These will be incredible places for our participants to gather for a few hours, get some work done on their business, network with others & get direct guidance from our team.

Overall, our goal is to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and resources you need to succeed in business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, we're here to support you every step of the way.If you're interested in accessing our resources or workshops for business development, we encourage you to reach out to us today.

Let's work together to empower you to achieve your entrepreneurial goals with Phoenix!

How can I get started with Phoenix?

Getting started with Phoenix is easy! Simply book your free consultation with us to begin your entrepreneurial journey.

During this consultation, we'll discuss your interests, aspirations, and goals, and explore how we can support you in starting and growing your own micro-business.

To book your free consultation, follow these simple steps:

Visit our "Book a Consultation" page.

Select a time on the calendar to chat to us.

Click "Submit" to send your consultation request to our team.

During your consultation, we'll take the time to understand your unique needs and aspirations and discuss how our program can help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals.

Whether you have a specific business idea in mind or are simply exploring the possibilities, we're here to provide you with personalised guidance, resources, and support every step of the way.

So don't wait any longer – book your free consultation today and take the first step towards turning your entrepreneurial dreams into reality!

We look forward to helping you succeed in business!

Is there a physical space I can go and work in?

Our future plans include a variety of 'Shared Working Spaces' available to our members.

A place where you can enjoy cool surroundings, private booths, sound proof spaces, meeting rooms, funky furnishings, up to the minute technology, dog friendly, with cafe and relaxation rooms all totally accessible and suitable for our NDIS entrepreneurs.

We will be looking to build and create these in a variety of states and towns so they are easily accessible for all entrepreneurs.

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Our Team

Meet Our Professional Team

Debbie Mewes

CEO & Entrepreneur Support

Michaela Bozicevic

Entrepreneur Support

Grant Mewes

Entrepreneur Support

Amanda Jensen

Entrepreneur Support

Get In Touch

We are Australia wide as an online service we can help any participant no matter where you live. We also have direct support via a private Discord chat you get access to the team if you need help at anytime.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live.

We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.

Disclaimer for Coaching Process

Our business coaching process is designed to provide structured guidance and support to help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals. We understand that each individual has unique needs and experiences, especially when living with disabilities such as PTSD or Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD).

Important Notice:

Nature of Coaching: Our coaching sessions will involve providing specific instructions and tasks that are essential for your business development.

Potential Triggers: We recognise that being told what to do can be challenging or triggering for some individuals. If you have any conditions, such as PTSD or ODD, that make it difficult to receive direct instructions, please inform us in advance. This information will help us tailor our approach to better suit your needs.

Communication and Support: We are committed to creating a supportive and understanding environment. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or triggered during a session, please communicate this to your coach. We will work together to find a more suitable approach for your comfort and progress.

Mutual Understanding: Our goal is to help you succeed in your business endeavours while respecting your personal boundaries and mental health. Open and honest communication is key to ensuring a productive and positive coaching experience.

Financial Responsibility: Phoenix Entrepreneurs are not financial managers of your business and are not responsible for your financial decisions. Our role is to provide guidance and support, but all financial decisions and actions are ultimately your responsibility. It is important to consult with a qualified financial advisor for specific financial advice.

By participating in our coaching program, you acknowledge and accept the nature of our process and agree to communicate any concerns or triggers you may have.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.