We had the good fortune of connecting with AARTI SAHGAL and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi AARTI, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

My story behind starting synergies Work is deeply personal When my younger son, who has Down syndrome, came into our lives, my husband and I promised each other that he would have the same opportunities to grow, flourish, and succeed as his older brother. This promise was a constant guide for us, but it took on a new, urgent meaning in 2017. That year, my older son took a leap of faith to quit his job and start his first startup. Watching him navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship opened my eyes to a glaring reality: there was a significant gap in support and resources for entrepreneurs with disabilities.

This gap wasn’t just a logistical issue; it reflected the soft bigotry of low expectations that too often limits the aspirations and achievements of individuals with disabilities. It struck me that while my older son had a network of resources to tap into, my younger son and others like him faced a world that didn’t fully recognize or support their potential. 

I couldn’t sit back and accept this status quo. Driven by a blend of maternal resolve and a penchant for tackling challenges head-on, I established Synergies Work. My aim was not merely to launch another nonprofit but to spark a transformative movement. A movement geared towards shattering outdated societal norms and showcasing that inclusive entrepreneurship doesn’t just benefit individuals with disabilities—it drives innovation that enriches everyone’s lives.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Synergies Work is the premier U.S. startup hub for disability-led businesses, having supported over 300 founders with our accelerator and incubator programs. We’re dedicated to fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem where disabled founders excel, by enabling economic mobility with targeted tools, resources, and support. As a catalyst for economic empowerment, we ensure equal opportunities for talent and bridge network and resource gaps. Our mission is to spur innovation, fuel growth, and guide entrepreneurs and small business owners with disabilities towards success. Our comprehensive approach empowers our community, creating an environment ripe for innovation and achievement.

Synergies Work provides targeted support to disabled founders through specialized resources and programs aimed at bridging knowledge, financial, and networking gaps. Key initiatives include the “Igniting Ideas” program for budding entrepreneurs, the “Impact to Incubation” program for startups looking to scale, and the Community Hub, an online platform offering guidance, funding opportunities, and networking.

Notably, we’ve launched Synergies Market, the first online marketplace dedicated to products and services from disability-owned businesses, promoting economic inclusion. Additionally, we’ve established the nation’s first CDFI for small business owners with disabilities, offering microloans and financial advisory services to support their entrepreneurial ventures.

At Synergies Work, we’re dedicated to fostering synergies between disabled founders and the broader business community, creating a supportive ecosystem for innovation and growth. So, in 2023 we introduced the EDDIE Awards, a groundbreaking initiative to celebrate the achievements of disabled entrepreneurs from across the country. The EDDIE (Entrepreneurs Dedicated To Diverse & Inclusive Excellence) Awards are a testament to the resilience, innovation, and excellence within the disability-led entrepreneurial community, spotlighting the remarkable contributions of these individuals to the broader business landscape. 

This year, the EDDIE Awards ceremony promises to be an inspiring event, taking place on April 11 at the Cobb Energy Center. We warmly invite everyone to join us in this momentous occasion, where we’ll not only honor the exceptional achievements of disabled entrepreneurs but also showcase the vibrant potential that inclusivity brings to the entrepreneurial world.

Our entrepreneurs are at the heart of our mission, running successful, diverse, and innovative businesses that contribute significantly to the economy by creating more jobs and fostering a culture of inclusivity. Through our efforts and the achievements of those we support, we aim to inspire a ripple effect, encouraging equitable resource and inclusion of disabled entrepreneurs in all business communities.

Join us at the EDDIE Awards to witness the power of inclusive entrepreneurship and to celebrate the individuals and businesses that are paving the way for a more diverse and dynamic future.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week-long trip to Atlanta, I’d curate an itinerary that blends the city’s rich history, diverse culinary scene, and vibrant outdoor life to ensure they have an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Sweet Auburn Adventure

Start the day with breakfast at a local café in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, savoring southern classics.
Visit the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. co-pastored.
Explore the King Center and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, diving into the heart of the civil rights movement.
Day 2: Culinary Journey in Doraville and Buford

Head to Doraville/Buford for a culinary tour, enjoying authentic dishes from around the world, highlighting the area’s diverse immigrant communities.
Spend the afternoon exploring local shops and markets.
Day 3: Atlanta BeltLine and Ponce City Market

Take a leisurely walk along the Atlanta BeltLine, a perfect way to enjoy the city’s green spaces and public art.
Stop for lunch and shopping at Ponce City Market, where the food hall offers a variety of gourmet options.
In the evening, find a rooftop bar here to enjoy drinks with a view.
Day 4: Day Trip to Wine Country

Venture to Jasper or Dahlonega for a day in wine country, touring vineyards and tasting Georgia wines.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery, soaking in the scenic views.
Day 5: Cultural Exploration

Visit the Atlanta History Center or the High Museum of Art to immerse in local history and art.
Have dinner in Midtown, offering a range of upscale dining options.
Day 6: Outdoor Adventures

Spend the day outdoors at the Chattahoochee River for some kayaking or paddleboarding.
Relax in the evening at a casual brewery nearby.
Day 7: Checkout my neighborhood in Sandy Springs or a brunch somewhere in the Inman Park neighborhood.

Throughout the week, I’d sprinkle in visits to local coffee shops, boutiques, and bars in vibrant neighborhoods like Decatur City, East Atlanta Village and Little Five Points.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Reflecting on the journey that has led me to where I am today, I am profoundly grateful for the myriad of influences that have guided, supported, and inspired me.

At the forefront of these influences is my family, whose unwavering support and belief in my endeavors have been my foundation. My husband, in particular, has been my sounding board and my rock and my best friend throughout this adventure. My sons and the young people in my life infuse each day with lessons in openness and adaptability, teaching me the value of viewing the world through fresh eyes.

I am a huge admirer of Adam Grant and his contributions through his books “Give and Take” and “Think Again.” His insights into the dynamics of giving, taking, networking and the power of questioning our beliefs have deeply influenced my approach to leadership & collaboration.

Finally, my gratitude extends to the vibrant community of entrepreneurs with disabilities with whom I’ve had the honor of collaborating and growing alongside deserves recognition. entrepreneurs with whom I’ve had the privilege of interacting. Their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to their visions have not only inspired me but have also reinforced the belief in the collective power of entrepreneurial spirit to drive change.

Website: www.synergieswork.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/synergieswork

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synergies-work

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/synergieswork.org

Image Credits
Synergies Work . except the photo with Atlanta Mayor

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