BEP Admissions and Requirements

Here is information regarding eligibility, key benefits, and deadlines for individuals interested in the Business Enterprise Program.

  • Eligibility
    • Candidates for the Business Enterprises Program must be legally blind, a United States citizen and a customer of GVRA’s VR program
    • Minimum 18 Years of Age
    • Demonstrated 12th Grade Math and Reading Levels
    • High School Diploma or GED
    • Successful completion of physiological and vocational rehabilitations, as well as a criminal background check with no confirmed felonies; and TB testing with confirmed negative results 
       
  • Key Benefits

    Participating in BET Training provides valuable skills and knowledge to help you succeed in business operations. This training will help you:

    • Develop the ability to work independently or as part of a team while demonstrating leadership and teamwork.
    • Enhance organizational skills, punctuality, stress management, and the ability to meet deadlines.
    • Strengthen problem-solving skills and proper equipment usage.
    • Learn effective inventory management, record-keeping, and financial management.
    • Improve communication skills for professional interactions.
    • Deliver excellent customer service and handle customer concerns effectively.
    • Gain knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
    • Understand the process of hiring, training, and managing employees in compliance with labor laws.

    By completing BET Training, you will be better equipped to operate a successful business while maintaining high standards of professionalism and efficiency.

  • Key Dates Deadlines
    Term
    Application Deadline
    Move In Date 
    Mandatory In-Person Training
    Summer 20253/31/20256/2/20256/10/2025-6/13/2025
    Fall 20256/30/20259/2/20259/9/2025-9/12/2025
    Spring 202611/30/20252/2/20262/10/2026-2/13/2026
  • Duration

    The BEP Training Program is designed to be completed in approximately 26 weeks, structured as follows:

    • Weeks 1-2: Orientation and Mobility Training to help participants acclimate to the Cave Springs Campus.
    • Weeks 3-18: Training at the Chicago Lighthouse, including the completion of the ServSafe certification.
    • Weeks 19-26: In-person, on-the-job training alongside a seasoned Blind Vendor for hands-on experience in business operations.

    This structured approach ensures that participants gain the necessary skills, knowledge, and practical experience to successfully manage and operate a business within the BEP program.

  • How to Apply
    1. Complete GVRA Referral to get connected with a local office: https://referral.gvs.ga.gov/prescreening 
    2. Applicants will submit their applications via their assigned Counselor. 
    3. Qualified candidates may be selected for an interview with the Business Enterprise Program.