Attention Austin Entrepreneurs with Super Powers!

Stephen Straus
Impact Dyslexia
Published in
2 min readJun 21, 2017

Dyslexia is often associated with challenges learning to read and write, but it turns out that dyslexics also have strengths, or super powers, that let them excel in a variety of different professions, notably entrepreneurship, architecture, engineering, and the creative and performing arts.

We are a group of parents of dyslexics working to form a new non-profit to support Austin area dyslexic students and their parents. As part of our effort, we are looking to connect with dyslexic entrepreneurs, among other successful adult dyslexics, to help as advisors and participate in programs we are developing. One program is focused on bringing dyslexic adults into schools to help dyslexic students see that there are paths through life that let them leverage their strengths.

Successful dyslexic entrepreneurs credit their dyslexia with helping them to be able to see the ‘big picture’ and contribute to their strong problem solving skills. Notable dyslexic entrepreneurs include Henry Ford, Walt Disney, Steve Jobs, and Richard Branson.

Remarkably, 40% of the world’s self-made millionaires have dyslexia! Charles Schwab talks about his dyslexia and how it helped him achieve success here.

Because of their natural strengths, dyslexics are over-represented in entrepreneurship as compared to the general population, where between 16% and 20% of people are dyslexic. But overall, as few as 5% of dyslexics are actually identified as such. If you think you may be dyslexic, click here for a quick screening test.

Looking to Connect with Austin-area Dyslexic Entrepreneurs
If you are a dyslexic entrepreneur or work in a related field, we would welcome the opportunity to talk about how you might be able to help younger dyslexics identify their strengths and learn how to best apply them. Please click here to connect with us as we could greatly use your help.

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Stephen Straus
Impact Dyslexia

Stephen Straus, co-founder and Managing Director of KUNGFU.AI, is an Austin-based serial tech and social entrepreneur and former venture capitalist.