Empowering Deaf Entrepreneurs: Success Stories and Resources for 2025

Entrepreneurship offers a pathway to independence and innovation, and for Deaf individuals, it can be a means to overcome employment barriers and create inclusive spaces. In 2025, the landscape for Deaf entrepreneurs is more promising than ever, with numerous success stories and resources available to support their ventures.

Success Stories

• Mozzeria: Founded by Melody and Russ Stein, Mozzeria is a San Francisco-based pizzeria renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizza and entirely Deaf staff. The restaurant not only serves delicious food but also promotes Deaf culture and employment.

  ALDA
  
  

• Crepe Crazy: Managed by Michelle Giterman, Crepe Crazy is a thriving restaurant in Austin, Texas, offering a variety of crepes. As a Deaf-owned and operated business, it exemplifies success in the culinary industry.

  Rochester Institute of Technology
  
  

• Mabely Q: Erin Perkins, the founder of Mabely Q, started her business to overcome challenges faced in traditional employment due to her deafness. Her journey highlights resilience and the pursuit of passion in entrepreneurship.

  Hear Me Out! [CC]
  
  

Resources for Aspiring Deaf Entrepreneurs

• Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD) Social Venture Fund: CSD invests in and supports innovative companies and entrepreneurs that place jobs for the Deaf at the heart of their business model. Their Social Venture Fund provides financial support and resources to Deaf-owned businesses.

  Communication Service for the Deaf
  
  

• Gallaudet Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute (GIEI): As the only university-based entrepreneur program in the world for individuals who are Deaf, GIEI offers background knowledge and experience to foster entrepreneurial skills.

  Gallaudet University
  
  

• National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Resources: NAD provides a wide range of information for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, including guidance on starting a business and navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.

  NAD
  
  

• Deaf Entrepreneurship Network: Founded by Michael Catron, this nonprofit organization offers mentoring, information, and resources to support Deaf-owned businesses.

  Watch it here.
  
  

At Cicada Sign, we are dedicated to supporting Deaf entrepreneurs by providing resources and fostering a community of innovation. We encourage aspiring Deaf business owners to utilize these resources and connect with organizations that can assist in their entrepreneurial journey.

Conclusion

The success stories of Deaf entrepreneurs in 2025 demonstrate that with determination and the right support, overcoming barriers is possible. By leveraging available resources and building a strong network, Deaf individuals can achieve their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute significantly to the economy.