Celebrating entrepreneurs and disability inclusion: Voya Cares® and NDSS award grants to business founders
November marks National Entrepreneurship Month, a time to spotlight the contributions of small businesses and entrepreneurs to the economy and to encourage community support. At Voya Cares, we believe that our many small businesses are a key to disability inclusive employment; There are 1.8 million disability-owned businesses in the U.S.*
The reality is that entrepreneurs with disabilities often start their businesses out of necessity to reduce or eliminate barriers in the workplace, but we can see from this year’s and past recipients that individuals with Down syndrome are revolutionizing the small business community by showcasing their passion and creativity.
That’s why, since 2020, we’ve partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to provide financial support to entrepreneurs with Down syndrome who are breaking barriers and building businesses that inspire change.
Over the past five years, this collaboration has awarded more than $100,000 to eight entrepreneurs, helping them grow ventures that champion inclusion and community engagement. This year, we’re proud to announce two new recipients of the NDSS and Voya Cares Entrepreneur Grant:
Brady McCarthy – SuperBrady
Brady is a passionate advocate for inclusion and acceptance. Through his SuperBrady inclusion books, games and artwork, his goal is “to have as many children as possible, across the country, be inspired by my artwork, books, and games, in order to spread my message of the importance of inclusion, acceptance and creativity.”
His online shop, SuperBradyShop.com, offers inclusive games, art and resources that empower kids to see abilities in themselves and others.
With this grant, Brady plans to expand his game line, enhance outreach through social media and donate books and games to schools and hospitals — continuing his mission to make every child a “Superhero of Inclusion.”
“In building my SuperBrady brand and becoming better known, it helps me in my advocacy work” with National Down Syndrome Society, elementary schools, hospitals and community centers.
Mike and Brian Hagan – Mike and Brian Ice Cream Entrepreneurs
Mike and Brian are launching a business that brings people together through the joy of locally crafted ice cream. Their vision? To create inclusive experiences at events in their Long Island community. The grant will fund a freezer trailer that meets health and safety standards, enabling them to safely transport ice cream.
“Our first goal is to share Nancy’s artisanal ice cream with our friends, family and community because it’s the best ice cream we’ve ever had, and we want everyone to try it,” they said.
Their ultimate goal is to grow their business to employ people with disabilities. “It’s important for us to have our own careers and be entrepreneurs and be independent. We want to be able to give other people with disabilities jobs because it’s hard to get a good job with fun people.”
With their $10k grant, Mike and Brian also want to start the Mike & Brian Ice Cream Entrepreneurs Foundation, to help more people with intellectual disabilities get meaningful work.
Why this matters
Entrepreneurs with disabilities are not just building businesses — they’re building bridges. They’re proving that inclusion drives innovation and strengthens communities. At Voya Cares, we’re honored to support these trailblazers and amplify their impact. Support the disability-owned businesses in your community to make sure competitive integrated employment is available to all individuals who want to work.
*“State of Disabled Entrepreneurship and Innovation Resources.” The Harkin Institute. Accessed on Nov. 20, 2025.
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and the Voya® family of companies are not affiliated and are not responsible for each other's policies and services.
Products and services offered through the Voya® family of companies.