7-9-08 Chatlog

Question: 
We are a very small, 501-c-3 not for profit organization.   We are keeping our overhead down as much 
as possible, but that is not offsetting expenses.   As a 501-c-3, we are not "owned" per se; however, 
our Founder has a disability, one or more of our Board Members have disabilities, and what we do all 
goes to help people with disabilities. The only "paid" staff to date is working without "pay".   Please 
advise.
admin says (18:54): 
Thank you for participating in the webcast.  In NE Self Employment Services, VR does not support 
entrepreneurs who plan to start non profit orgs.  I would encourage you to contact our director, Patti 
Lind, who may have some information that could help you out.


Question: 
(We have already started ours)   Thank you...   Do you have an E-mail address for her?
admin says (18:56): 
sure-- prlind@abilitiesfund.org.  you can also reach her via our website.  Good luck!


Question: 
Thank you :>).   How does a Microloan differ from a donation?   Is the Microloan expected to be paid 
back in any set time period?
admin says (18:58): 
Yes, there is a difference.  Microloans are loans and do require repayment.  Terms of repayment are 
arranged much like any other loan, ie home loan.


Question: 
Christine:  Thanks for the information.  I assume the tools on the web page can be used by 
anyone????  Is there a way to collaborate with you to bring these kinds of tools to other states - ie CO
admin says (19:03): 
You are welcome.  The tools on the website will be available to individuals in August.  I encourage you 
to visit our website for additional information. You could also contact our Director at 
prlind@abilitiesfund.org to discuss further.


Question: 
Can you restate the first two points in the presentation summary please?   I'm not sure that I caught 
them... 
admin says (19:07): 
I believe I reviewed how we began with personal assessment, worked through feasibility and business 
planning in order to identify the amount of capital needed to launch business.  Also discussed where 
to access funds and the importance of knowing what the requirements are to qualify for programs.


Question:  
Thank you for this presentation... it was great.  I would like to know how to get 'hooked up' with the 
Abilities fund.  I am in Klamath Falls Oregon and contract with the Small Business Development Center 
and the local VR office.
admin says (19:17): 
You will be able to logon on to our website and use our online tools.  The program I run in NE is 
accessible only to Nebraskans with disabilities.  I encourage you to visit our website at 
www.abilitiesfund.org for more information. At the end of this week,
admin says (19:18): 
our website will have a totally new look and new online tools for you to use. Good luck!

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