15 Resources for Tech Startups Focusing on Access

For tech startups looking to create accessible solutions, you’ve come to the right place. Not only do the right resources make all the difference when building accessible products and services, but understanding the broad range of accommodations needed to cater to diverse abilities is just as important. 

Accessibility-first businesses aren’t just shaping a more welcoming world; as mentioned in our previous blogs, they’re also tapping into a global market valued at $13 trillion. Investing in accessibility encourages outside-the-box thinking, which leads to innovation and ultimately making products better for everyone. However, scaling a startup that prioritizes accessibility comes with unique challenges, including navigating regulations, mastering welcoming design, cultural understanding, and securing funding. 

To support you on this journey, we’ve curated 15 resources for accessibility-focused startups. From grants and compliance tools to marketing insights and accelerator programs, these resources are designed to help you grow, fund, and develop impactful solutions. 

Categories of Resources 

1. Funding & Grants 

Securing funding is often the biggest hurdle for startups, and accessibility-focused ventures can benefit from specialized funding opportunities. Below are some resources that can help you secure funding for your accessibility-driven startup: 

2. VC Firms Specializing in Accessibility: Research venture capital firms that prioritize social impact and technologies for all users with differing abilities. Examples include Disability Impact Partners and Autism Impact Fund. 
3. Government Grants & Innovation Funds: Look for national and international grants supporting accessibility, such as the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program or European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator Grants. 

4. Regulatory & Compliance Tools 

Meeting accessibility standards is helpful for long-term success and can help mitigate legal risks. Sticking with established accessibility guidelines allows your products to be user-friendly for all abilities and legally compliant. With that said, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the necessary regulations and tools to keep your business on track: 

5. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): This is the gold standard for digital accessibility. Understanding WCAG 2.1 (and beyond) can guide your product design. 

6. ADA Compliance Tools: Tools like AccessiBe and UserWay provide automated solutions to help websites comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

7. Legal Resources: Seek guidance from legal professionals specializing in disability law to stay ahead of evolving regulations. 

8. Design & Development Platforms 

Creating products that are both accessible and user-friendly requires a strong foundation in designs that include everyone. Accessibility should be considered at every step of the design and development process. Take advantage of these platforms and best practices to make sure that accessibility is integrated into your products from the start: 

9. Accessibility Testing Tools: Platforms like WAVE, axe DevTools, and Lighthouse can help you evaluate and improve your product’s accessibility. 

10. UX/UI Best Practices: Implement design principles that benefit all users. Resources like the Inclusive Design Toolkit and Microsoft’s Inclusive Design Principles offer practical advice on building user-friendly interfaces. 

11. Networking & Accelerator Programs 

Building a strong network can open doors to mentorship, investment, and strategic partnerships. Connecting with the right people and organizations will provide invaluable support in growing your startup. Here are some programs and networks that can offer such help: 

12. Startup Incubators: Consider joining programs that support social impact ventures and accessibility-first businesses, such as Impact Hub or Techstars Impact. 

13. Industry Groups & Mentorship Programs: Organizations like SVF and Disability:IN offer high-value connections, mentorship, and resources. 

14. Marketing & Consumer Insights 

Who is your audience? Understanding your audience, whether they’re people with differing abilities, tech-savvy users, or those seeking accessible solutions, is key to creating impactful products. By knowing their specific needs and preferences, you can build a customer base and drive the success of your accessibility-first startup. The differing abilities market is growing rapidly and has a large economic impact. Use these resources to gather insights and craft effective marketing strategies: 

15. Accessibility Market Research: Use reports and consumer insights that focus on the $13 trillion disability market to better understand your target audience. Research organizations like The Return on Disability Group provide much-needed insights into the spending power and needs of people with differing abilities. 

Conclusion 

Building an accessibility-first tech startup offers both challenges and incredible opportunities, especially in the early stages. By taking advantage of these 15 resources, you can position your startup for sustainable growth, create social impact, and tap into the immense potential of the accessibility market. We hope you find this information helpful as you embark on your journey. 

We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs, particularly Deaf and Hard of Hearing people from traditionally excluded communities, who prioritize accessibility and innovation. Whether through funding, mentorship, or strategic guidance, we’re here to help you succeed.