The Ultimate Guide for Funding Assistive Technology in the United States: Grants, Scholarships & Loans

Navigating life with blindness or low vision can create some financial burdens. There's a silver lining, however: a range of organizations across the United States is dedicated to offering valuable support, resources, and services to empower individuals in the blind and low vision community.

Here at Envision, we increase the autonomy of the lives of individuals who are blind or have low vision, using groundbreaking technology. We are aware that accessing a world of independence comes at a price and so we compiled a list of scholarships and other financial resources to access assistive technology in the US along with eligibility criteria and step-by-step guide to navigate applications.

This guide provides an overview of financial resources in the United States, including grants, scholarships, loans, crowdfunding platforms, and telecommunications resources. ‍Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone in need of AT for daily living, this guide can help you navigate the funding landscape.

Financial and Other Resources

Funding assistive technology often involves exploring various financial resources, such as grants, scholarships, loans, and crowdfunding options. Below is a detailed breakdown of available resources and how to apply for them.

1. Grants and Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are vital financial resources that do not require repayment. These funds are usually provided by non-profit organizations, foundations, and government programs to assist individuals with disabilities in obtaining necessary assistive technologies.

1.1. National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Assistive Technology Fund

The NFB’s scholarship program awards over $250,000 annually to blind scholars across the U.S. through thirty $8,000 merit-based scholarships. This program recognizes academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Finalists are required to attend the NFB national convention in July, where scholarship winners are selected.

Eligibility: Legally blind U.S. residents, 18 years old by July 1, 2023, pursuing full-time post-secondary study in the U.S.

Find more information here.

1.2. Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) by The Association of Blind Citizens

The ATF covers 50% of the retail price of adaptive devices or software for legally blind individuals, with a focus on improving employment prospects and independence. The fund supports products in the $200-$6,000 price range.

Eligibility: Family income under $50,000, cash assets under $20,000, legally blind U.S. residents.

Applications are accepted twice a year, by June 30th and December 31st.

Find more information here.

1.3. American Council of the Blind (ACB) Scholarship Program

The ACB Scholarship Program offers educational scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $7,500 for legally blind students attending post-secondary institutions in the U.S. The scholarships can be used for tuition, fees, room and board, and assistive technology expenses.

Eligibility: Legally blind students with a minimum GPA of 3.0, full-time or part-time students (working at least 32 hours per week), and actively involved in their community.

Find more information here.

1.4. American Printing House (APH) STEM Scholarships

APH offers scholarships up to $3,000 for legally blind students interested in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields.

Eligibility: Legally blind students pursuing post-secondary education with a strong interest in STEM.

Application period opens in January and closes in March.

Find more information here.

1.5. Lighthouse Guild

Lighthouse Guild offers annual scholarships ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 for visually impaired students pursuing higher education.

Eligibility: Scholarships are open to both undergraduate and graduate students, covering various fields, including liberal arts, science, and technology.

Application period: January to April.

Find more information here.

1.6. Lions Club International

Lions Club International focuses on preventing avoidable blindness and improving the quality of life for the visually impaired. They offer grants and other forms of assistance for acquiring assistive technology.

Learn more about potential help and grants available from Lions Club International.

1.7 Sight Savers

Sightsavers is an international charity that works to prevent avoidable blindness, restore sight, and advocate for the rights of people who are blind or have low vision. By supporting initiatives like assistive technology, they help provide essential tools such as smart glasses and braille devices, empowering individuals to lead more independent lives. Donations to Sightsavers help fund these technologies, giving people greater access to education, employment, and daily living activities. For more information, you can visit Sightsavers.

2. Loans for Assistive Technology

Loans provide an alternative means of funding assistive technology, offering the advantage of spreading costs over time. Various programs offer low-interest or specialized loans for individuals with disabilities.

2.1. State Assistive Technology (AT) Programs

State AT programs, as part of the Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP), offer financing options for assistive devices and technologies. These programs vary by state and may include device demonstrations, loans, and financing.

Find your State AT Programs here.

2.2. Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU)

DCU offers Access Loans specifically designed for assistive technology, covering 100% of the purchase cost from $1,000 to $25,000, with terms up to 72 months.

Visit DCU for more information.

Conclusion

Understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes for these programs can help individuals with disabilities and their families access the financial support they need to acquire essential assistive technologies.

For more detailed information on any of the programs mentioned, please visit their respective websites or contact the organizations directly. With the right resources, achieving a higher quality of life through assistive technology is possible.

Disclaimer: This article offers general information and the criteria may change. It's crucial to verify eligibility and requirements with the organization offering financial help before applying for any grants.