Entrepreneurship Creates Opportunities for Individuals with Down Syndrome

It started with snow cones. Then it snowballed. Blake Pyron rolled up his sleeves, stocked up on syrup and opened Blake's Snow Shack for business in 2015. Blake's inspirational story has gone worldwide, with national and international press establishing the Snow Shack as a can't-miss stop on any Texas tour. After all, it serves up two amazing things: crazy delicious snow cones and Blake's million-dollar smile.

BU Candles is a business committed to making high-quality soy wax candles and recognizing and celebrating the contributions of people with developmental disabilities. Our mission is to create a brand with a focus on embodying all elements of a healthy lifestyle. BU aims to promote self-care, wellness, and sustainability by creating eco-friendly products for you and your home. The inspiration behind the phrase of BU is simply the message to always be yourself and celebrate who you are.
 

Guilt-free chocolate was once just a dream for lovers of sweetness everywhere, but with Cameron's Chocolates it is here! Our remarkable chocolates are made with love and devotion by a wonderful group of young adults and volunteers. Cameron's Coffee and Chocolates offers an early morning array of coffee drinks, tea and freshly baked pastries made and baked in our own kitchen.

Grace Key is the creator of Candidly Kind. She's a 21 year old entrepreneur who has used writing, drawing and painting throughout her life to express herself. She began painting a few years ago and started pairing her “Grace phrases” with her original paintings and printing them on shirts. With that, “candidly kind” was formed.

Katie Lowe created Cheetah Greetings because she enjoys making cards and making people happy. Katie likes to make personalized cards for family and wanted todo it for her business. Her cards are made by using patterned card stock, stamping, and specialized crafting machines-like the Cricut Joy™️. Katie welcomes special requests and personalized special orders.

With every cookie sale Collettey's has, Collette is one step closer to offering yet another employment opportunity in her company. The famous Amazing Cookie has been called the best cookie of all time by many. Flavored with chocolate and cinnamon, this soft on the inside, crunchy on the outside cookie will have you wanting more. You will surely become a regular customer, and perhaps join the cookie club.

Connor's Canine Cookies is a heartwarming venture founded by 13-year-old Connor Rodriguez, a spirited young boy with Down Syndrome, along with the unwavering support of his dedicated parents, Marian and Fred. Connor's Canine Cookies isn't just about creating delicious and healthy treats for our furry canine friends; it's a testament to the boundless possibilities that come with passion, determination, and the love for our four-legged companions.

Founded in 2016, Da Bombs by Morgan Tibbens offers an array bath and home products, including soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, sugar scrubs, lotions, candles, car diffusers, and laundry detergent. Our products are thoughtfully crafted to enhance your daily rituals and add a touch of joy to your life.

Are you looking for a DJ? I'm DJ Joe and I'm your guy – Let me bring my love of music, dancing but most of all fun, to your next event. Corporate Events, Birthday Party, Dances, any Celebration – I'll get the party started and keep it going. I provide everything you need for a memorable event; Professional Lighting, Sound System, Personalized Playlists, but most of FUN. So… Hit Me Up and Let's Party!!

Doggy Delights is a perfect business for Allison because she can spend time in the kitchen producing the treats. She uses her organizational skills in preparing the packaging for the treats and doing the business end of things. Promoting her business and selling the treats gets her out into the community meeting people and their dogs

One night at dinner we were talking about what kind of business we should have and out of the blue Zach said “I want a doughnut shop.” From that night on, we knew that one day we were going to have a doughnut shop. Down for Doughnuts offers doughnuts, muffins, coffee and other assorted foods and drinks. We have a relationship with a world class coffee company that sets us apart from all others.

Down Right Delicious Dog Treats was founded by Calli Jo and her mother, Nicki, in 2022. At our core, we are passionate about crafting healthy homemade dog treats that both your beloved pets and ours can enjoy! Our delicious treat selection includes peanut butter honey biscuits, wholesome beet treats, and irresistible peanut butter and pumpkin biscuits. Every batch is made with love and features only the finest ingredients, including whole wheat flour, premium peanut butter, pure honey, and nourishing flaxseed.