Ford Foundation Grant Elevates Digital Inclusion Research and Advocacy
We are excited to share the news of a generous $150,000 grant from the Ford Foundation's Tech and Society program. This funding will enable AFB's Public Policy and Research Institute (PPRI) to continue producing pioneering research and education on digital inclusion in emerging technology.
“During these transformative times, the foundation’s support will be a significant milestone for our organization, allowing us to dive deeper in our research to bolster a more inclusive world for people with disabilities,” said Eric Bridges, AFB President and CEO. “It comes at an exciting point in our history as we look at how new technologies like artificial intelligence will impact the broader disability community and allow us to provide guidance for advocates, policymakers, and industry leaders.”
The Ford Foundation’s commitment to equal opportunity and human welfare fits well within AFB’s new strategic plan. A key goal of this plan is to provide thought leadership on critical issues impacting accessibility and the full and equal inclusion of people with disabilities in society, including the 50 million Americans who experience some degree of blindness or low vision.
As the digital age continues to transform every aspect of modern life, AFB is committed to providing technology developers, the business community, and government leaders with actionable information about accessibility and technology risks informed by high-quality research. Through September 2025, the funding will support ongoing research and outreach on Artificial Intelligence and a special issue of the Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness. PPRI will provide reports, briefings, and webinars throughout the year to update stakeholders and consumers on the research findings.
