The Maryland Business Enterprise Program for the Blind (BEP) is authorized by the Federally mandated Randolph-Sheppard Act that provides persons who are blind with the training, licensing, and oversight to manage the operation of successful retail concession, food service, and vending operations in federal and State of Maryland facilities.
BEP Training
Training to become a licensed BEP manager includes successfully completing a three-phase program, consisting of:
- An eight-week New Manager Training course conducted by BEP staff at DORS’ Workforce & Technology Center in Northeast Baltimore.
- Formal food service training with certified instructors and chefs. Prospective BEP managers will learn all aspects of a food service operation and become certified by the National Restaurant Association in food service sanitation.
- On-the-job training consisting of three to six months of extended internship at various BEP facilities under an experienced manager. This provides the new managers the opportunity to implement all skills learned prior to licensing.
Interested in BEP?
If you already have a DORS counselor, ask your counselor about BEP! If you are not already working with DORS, complete a Request DORS Services form. This form can be completed by anyone – you, a family member, a medical provider, a social worker, etc.
You will be contacted to set up an intake where DORS will gather and provide information regarding your eligibility for DORS services.
BEP Contact Information:
Maryland Business Enterprise Program for the Blind
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
410-554-9277
obvs.dors@maryland.gov
