Self-Advocate Run Business

It's always fun to go shopping, and there is always a birthday or holiday to be planning presents for. If you find yourself in need of some retail therapy, consider shopping from businesses run by entrepreneurs who have Down syndrome. Brimming with creativity, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit, these individuals with Down syndrome have worked hard to make their dreams a reality, often providing opportunities for others with disabilities as they do so. Check out just some of the many amazing business below as well as a link to NDSS's page and their bank of people with Down syndrome with businesses.

John's Crazy Socks

Created by John and his father, Mark, John's Crazy Socks offers fun socks of all kinds and also employs individuals of differing abilities. Their mission is to spread happiness. An added piece of awesomeness is that every package has a note from John, and 5% of earnings are donated to the Special Olympics.

21 Pineapples

Founded by Nate and his mother, Holly, 21 Pineapples offers a variety of amazing t-shirts, hawaiian shirts, polos, hats, and outerwear. Their goal is to change the way others perceive people with Down syndrome and other abilities. A % of every sale benefits Down syndrome organizations.

Doggy Delights by Allison

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Founded by Chef Allison, Doggy Delights only uses natural human grade ingredients to create the best dog treats. Allison creates the recipes herself using her passion for cooking and her knowledge that food for dogs, like humans, should be as delicious and healthy as possible.

Matthew's Bonfire BBQ

Founded by Matthew, Matthew's Bonfire BBQ aims to spice up life, increase disability awareness, nd create opportunities for all. A portion of the proceeds goes to the UP Program at Matthew’s alma mater and Ruby’s Rainbow which supports individuals with Down syndrome

H-Bomb Ties

Inspired by Harrison (H-bomb) and his affinity for fun ties, and created by his parents, each amazing tie helps to create work training for individuals with disabilities.

K Bee Candles

Founded by Kayla, K Bee candles are hypo-allergenic, great for people with allergies. They clean the air and reduce indoor pollutants, they can effectively reduce asthma, allergies, and hay fever.

Seanese

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Founded by Sean, his goal is to prove to others that Down syndrome isn't that big of a deal. Proceeds from each shirt benefits Down syndrome charities, and Seanese sends onesies for new parent baskets through Welcome Baby Onesie Mission.

Simon's Soapbox

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Created by Simon and his sister, Caroline, during COVID 19, the goal of Simon's Soapbox is to demonstrate the value of people with and without disabilities working together. Each bar of soap has a swirl uniquely created by Simon.

Collettey's Cookies

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Founded by Collette, Collettey's cookies aim to be a delicious way to give individuals with disabilities employment. In addition to her cookies, Collette also runs a non-profit as she aims to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities on a legislative level.

Texas Sweet Heat Jam Co

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Created by culinary artist, Nolan, Sweet Heat uses homegrown peppers to create unique and spicy jams. His goal was to use his love of gardening and cooking to follow his culinary dreams and become a culinary innovation. Sweet Heat provides employment for young adults with disabilties.

This is Jacob Rugs

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Founded by Jacob, an advocate for the Down syndrome community. Created because of the lack of employment opportunities, Jacob's custom rugs aim to help him show the world that he can do anything he puts his mind to.

NDSS List of Self-Advocate Businesses

There are SO many amazing entrepreneurs with Down syndrome that I couldn't include them all on this site or it would take quite some time. NDSC has an extensive and alphabetized list of self-advocate run businesses that you can check out here!