ADA Accessibility Grants: A Guide

How To Apply For Accessibility Accommodation Funding

Accessibility refers to the design, creation, adjustment and upgrade of environments and services, both physical and digital, so that are equally usable by people with disabilities. This includes access to buildings, transportation, websites and web applications, and digital services and documents. For people with disabilities, accessibility is foundational. It is the prerequisite to their equal participation in all aspects of life. In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was written into United States law to prohibit discrimination based on disability, and to require accessible facilities and services for the American public. The ADA requires businesses and organizations to make reasonable accommodations, such as wheelchair ramps for buildings, or screen reader compatibility for web materials, so that their services, programs, and activities are accessible to people with disabilities.

In this article, we will explain ADA accessibility grants: financial resources available to help public and private entities cover the cost of implementing accessibility features. The significant financial investment required to achieve ADA compliance can be a burden for nonprofits, businesses, and homeowners. ADA accessibility grants help carry the load, making compliance more attainable and easing the way to a more inclusive society.

What Are ADA Accessibility Grants?

ADA accessibility grants are financial awards from government agencies and nonprofit organizations to assist public and private entities with the cost of implementing accessibility features. They aren’t loans, and typically do not have to be repaid. They function as financial aid given to organizations or individuals to cover the costs associated with making improvements to meet ADA compliance standards. These grants are similar to other government grants where the funds are used for a specific purpose; they do not need to be returned if used appropriately according to the grant program guidelines. They’re still far from free money, however. Compliance is a large undertaking, and these funds are available to make ADA accessibility compliance possible, but they won’t cover every expense, and they certainly won’t pay for the time and effort required to make accessibility happen. However, accessibility is an investment that pays for itself in functionality for everyone, disability users included, and in a recognizable commitment to fair and equal service that often results in organizational benefits as well as individual advantages.

Who Gets The Grants?

Not everyone, and as with most bureaucratic processes, even those who are both eligible and deserving may have to go through processes and waiting periods. But while different grant programs have various funding pools and award structures, a few things can work in your favor: a strong application, solid justification for the expenditures and allotment, and size and complexity of your ADA compliance project.

If you’re trying to estimate potential grant size, many government agencies and organizations that offer ADA accessibility grants publish information about their funding programs on their websites. This information may include average grant amounts or funding ranges for different project types. And, searching for news articles or organizational reports about ADA accessibility grants awarded in the past may give you an idea of the funding range that can be expected for similar projects.

Financial Access: Why Give ADA Accessibility Grants?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) works to guarantee equal access for people with disabilities to the spaces, services and opportunities we all use. But making physical spaces, digital content, and services truly accessible can be prohibitively expensive. ADA accessibility grants are lifelines for nonprofits, businesses, and even homeowners. They help offset the financial burden of accessibility improvements, making it easier to create inclusive environments for all. ADA grants remove financial barriers. They open up possibilities for everyone to do their best for each other.

If you're looking to make a real difference in your community, business, or home, consider exploring your eligibility for ADA accessibility grants. They're a powerful tool for building a world where everyone feels welcome and included.

Types of ADA Grants & Funds Available

There are various types of ADA accessibility grants and funding options available to assist with the cost of implementing accessibility features. Specific programs and eligibility requirements can vary depending on the source and location, so research is always recommended. Here are some common types of ADA grant & funding programs:

Note that disability grants for home improvements are typically not intended for multi-family or group housing projects. These grants are usually designed to help individual homeowners make accessibility modifications to their own private residences. Some types of group housing, such as independent living communities for people with disabilities, could in certain circumstances have some limited eligibility for grants for ADA accessibility in housing rehabilitation.

What Is A Capital Advance?

“Capital” here refers to money. This is an up-front financial incentive to support businesses and private nonprofit organizations that are looking to build housing units. These grants usually fall under the discretionary category, meaning applications are processed and decided upon internally.

One example of a grant that benefits housing developers who wish to include accessibility in their building plans, as required by ADA law, is a capital advance, such as a Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities Capital Advance grant (2024 grant closed) through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

For this particular program, estimated grant funding totals just above $106M bucks for all grant awardees, with a $5 million award ceiling, with no cost sharing or matching required. This means that unlike the IRS tax credits and deductions, there’s no need to put in 10 to get 5. Theoretically, this could cover all compliance expenses. Building is expensive, however, and outlay may go over the $5 million mark, even if that was the max anticipated.

Who’s Eligible For This Type Of Grant?

It’s a bit complex, but non-profit orgs with a 501(c)(3) IRS tax exempt status other than institutions of higher education are eligible, if they meet all additional requirements. To give a glimpse of the types of organizations this could include, think of churches or parochial schools, private charity foundations, political parties or associations, civic leagues and social clubs. The IRS lists all 501(c)(3) organization categories here.

The purpose of this grant is to expand affordable rental housing for individuals 18-62 who are in a very low income category, so that people with disabilities who can’t afford private housing can broaden their opportunities for integrated yet independent living in their communities. This is in direct response to the 1999 Supreme Court decision in Olmstead v. L.C. This landmark court case affirmed that individuals with disabilities may not be unjustifiably segregated, as this is prohibited under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Integration Mandate now enforces integrated disability housing in the United States, based on the Olmstead ruling.

Why Would A Church Build Housing?

If you’re asking yourself this question, there’s a dual answer: America is experiencing a major ongoing housing crisis, and religious service attendance has declined significantly. People are struggling to afford basic accommodations in today’s economic climate, with underemployment, stagnant wages, and skyrocketing costs. A Northern Virginia church made the dramatic decision to sell their underused house of worship and land to a nonprofit developer, which built a six-story complex with 173 housing units. The church now rents the ground floor for services, and the apartments are available for area residents with <60% of the local median income. Other faith groups around the country are following their lead, leveraging their main financial asset to get their own organizations’ heads above water while choosing a buyer who can simultaneously fulfill their social benefit objectives. And yes, of course, with the objective of providing affordable housing, the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities must be considered, both under the ADA, and as part of any faith’s dictums on community responsibility.

Why Are Colleges And Universities Excluded From Certain Grants?

They’re in a separate legal category. Higher ed students with disabilities are protected by nondiscrimination rulings under Section 504 and the ADA, with ADA Title II applying to state college students and those at federally funded colleges, and rights for disability students at privately funded institutions falling under ADA Title III, which includes regulations on public accommodations.

Private institutions of higher learning, that is, colleges and universities, are required to provide accessible living spaces and other disability accommodations under the ADA. However, some exceptions of concern include:

1. Firstly, private institutions of higher learning may not be required to accept every potential student who has a disability if they cannot perform essential course activities even without what’s considered reasonable accommodation. Sounds wrong, but that’s the reality under the law as it currently stands.
2. Secondly, private universities and other privately funded higher education institutions may claim exemption from ADA accessibility accommodation requirements if they can prove that correcting accessibility blockers is too great a financial burden. They can also claim undue hardship and refuse to provide requested disability accommodations if there is a significant expense or difficulty in providing them.
3. Third, these institutions can exclude a student with a disability from classes if they can prove that their attendance causes a major disruption, such as a student who regularly has severe epileptic seizures.

With these caveats in place, and in spite of some complaints about the resources needed to create better conditions to truly accommodate everyone, accessibility has gained prominence in the public conscious, and ADA, Section 504, and FHA (Fair Housing Act) requirements for postsecondary educational institutions are accepted as standard.

Disability accommodation requirements for students at institutes of higher learning, including necessary aids and services from accessible materials and technology to support and service animals, are not only being acknowledged and (sometimes) prioritized, they’re being written into law. A new ADA Title II rule was published on April 8, 2024, requiring state and local governments and all public universities to provide digital accessibility at WCAG 2.1 AA levels for all websites, web applications and digital documents, mobile apps and documents, digital and online course materials and classes, and important social media posts including digital content and documents on those platforms.

What Funding Options Are Available For Accessible Group Living?

For individuals with disabilities who are living in a multi-family or group home, or who are scheduled to move into this type of accommodation, look for grant programs offered by federal, state or local government agencies that target affordable housing or accessibility improvements in multi-unit dwellings. And, check national and local disability rights organizations for resources or guidance on finding funding for accessibility projects in multi-family and group housing.

Before applying for any grant, remember that it's best to do your initial research and then, if possible, contact the program administrator directly to clarify eligibility requirements.

For directors or managers of group living programs for people with disabilities, multiple grants are available through the federal government, with the applicants generally being state-level agencies and similar bodies.

ADA Grants for Nonprofits

Nonprofit organizations can increase their chances of a successful response to their application for ADA compliance grants by utilizing the steps below. 

Getting the Grant: Before, During, & After Application

• Identify Your Needs
  Assess your organization's current accessibility status. Determine which areas require modifications or upgrades to comply with ADA standards.
  
• Find Funding Sources
  Look for ADA compliance grant programs offered by federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations that support accessibility initiatives. Key resources include the U.S. Department of Justice and the ADA National Network.
  
• Review Requirements
  Each grant program has specific eligibility requirements related to the organization's mission, tax status, and the type of accessibility improvements planned.
  
• Get Registrations In Order
  Regardless of whether your organization has applied for or been awarded grants in the past, now is the time to go over any required registrations, to be sure that your org is correctly listed and set to apply.
  
• Prepare To Apply
  Gather necessary documentation, including your nonprofit status, detailed project plans, and cost estimates.
  
• Develop Grant Proposal
  Clearly explain how the grant funding will be used to create or improve accessibility features in your facilities, programs, or digital technologies. Demonstrate the positive impact these improvements will have on people with disabilities, and how the planned adjustments align with ADA requirements.
  
• Get Help
  Grant writing can be complex. Consider working with a professional grant writer or seeking guidance from an organization that specializes in accessibility advocacy. And, ask for editing help. Don’t forget to back up your files and keep multiple copies!
  
• Submit Application
  Follow the specific guidelines provided by the grant issuer. Get all forms completed accurately and submitted before the deadline.
  
• Follow Up
  After submitting your ADA grant application, stay in contact with the grant provider. Be prepared to provide additional information or clarifications if requested.

Securing ADA grants for nonprofits can take time and effort, but the reward is significant. By creating a strong application and demonstrating a commitment to inclusion, nonprofits can secure funding to remove accessibility barriers and better serve their communities.

ADA Grants for Businesses

Businesses can apply for ADA grants to improve their facilities and services for better accessibility. Below are the steps to take to successfully apply for and receive ADA grants for businesses:

Demonstrating Value & Returns

• Evaluate Existing Accessibility
  Assess your organization's current accessibility status. Conduct a thorough assessment of your business premises to determine which areas require modifications or upgrades to comply with ADA standards. This could include entrances, restrooms, and digital services.
  
• Research Grant Opportunities
  Explore available ADA grants for businesses. Key sources include federal and state government programs, as well as private foundations that support accessibility initiatives.
  
• Grant Program Match
  Carefully review each grant program's guidelines. Does your business meets the eligibility requirements? Look for programs that align with the specific accessibility needs of your business and clientele.
  
• Register Your Business
  Be sure to get and maintain the correct registrations you’ll need as prerequisites for any grant application.
  
• Prep & Develop a Compelling Grant Application
  Compile the necessary documentation, such as your business details, project proposals, and cost estimates. Then, craft a clear and concise proposal that details how the grant funds will be used to create or enhance accessibility features. Demonstrate the positive impact these improvements will have on your business operations and customer experience.
  
• Consult with Professionals
  Consider seeking guidance from a grant writer or an accessibility specialist. Their expertise can be valuable in crafting a strong application and navigating the complexities of the grant process. And, have any writers on your team review the application for typos and errors.
  
• Send the Application
  Make sure all forms and documents are accurately completed and submitted within the deadline. Follow any specific instructions from the grant issuer, such as ink color or documents in triplicate.
  
• Monitor Application Status
  After submission, stay in contact with the grant provider. Be ready to provide any additional information or clarifications if needed.

Securing ADA grants for businesses can help defray the extensive costs that can be associated with accessibility improvements. With a well-developed grant proposal, businesses that demonstrate a commitment to inclusion may receive substantial funding to help them comply with legal standards and create a more welcoming environment for all customers and employees.

Disability Grants for Home Improvements

Disability grants for home improvements can help offset the cost of modifications that make a home more accessible for people with disabilities. These grants are typically offered by federal, state, and local government agencies, and eligibility requirements and available funding can vary depending on location. Some programs may offer pre-application consultations to discuss project feasibility and eligibility. This can be a valuable step to determine whether you are applying for the most appropriate program.

It's important to clarify that specifically ADA grants are more commonly used for public spaces and commercial buildings. However, there are several other federal, state, and local programs that offer disability grants for home improvements by homeowners, made with accessibility in mind. These grants can help offset the cost of modifications that make a home more accessible for people with disabilities.

Note that multiple HUD grants are available to assist in providing supportive housing for people with disabilities, and for elderly individuals who may have aging-related disabilities. This includes options for accessibility modifications for homes where an aging relative is living with the home owning family. There’s a lot more in-depth information on the HUD Section 202 info sheet, so if this is relevant for you, do check that out.  

Additional Considerations

Keep in mind that:

• Grant funding may not cover the entire cost of accessibility improvements. Homeowners and renters may need to budget for additional expenses.
• The application review and approval process can take time. It is important to be patient and persistent.
• Some grant programs may have waiting lists.

Remember, creating a more accessible home is an investment that benefits everyone. By following these steps and conducting thorough research, homeowners and renters can increase their chances of successfully applying for and receiving disability grants for home improvements, upgrading accessibility accommodations in their homes to improve quality of life levels for all residents with disabilities.

Am I Eligible For An ADA Grant?

If you have a disability, or if you are responsible for either housing, employing, or otherwise accommodating someone with a disability, and the structures, interfaces, or materials are simply not accessible in their current state, it’s worth digging a little bit to find out if there’s an ADA grant or other funding with your or your organization’s name on it.

That being said, it can be a long and complicated process. So if you are determined to proceed, be sure to prepare well, cover your ground, follow the format, continue strong, and of course, if at first you don’t succeed, there are other grants. Try again. There may be a disability advocacy nonprofit that is looking for deserving awardees just like you.

Writing Your Successful Grant Application

Although we’ve run through most of the main to-dos, here are some additional details on documentation and other supplies most applicants will want to have on hand before submitting their grant application:

• Do you have a mission statement? If not, look for one, or create one.
• Do you have up-to-date paperwork for all relevant by-laws?
• Do you have your articles of incorporation (if relevant)?
• Is there a full and current organizational chart for your org? You may need one of those.
• How about a history of your organization? Have one ready. If you’re an individual, consider a medical history of your disability, and what needs the grant could help you fulfill.
• Has your organization been audited? Check if that’s necessary. There are many kinds of audits, and you’ll need to have any relevant audits handled before you apply. You may also need a financial statement.
• Are there any positive mentions of your organization in the media? Keep quotes, clips, and all other helpful public relations material ready.
• Top up all office supplies you might need. You don’t want to run out of copier paper at a critical moment.

Now, review your application thoroughly. Are you sure you’re eligible? Will you have enough time to complete and send in your application? Are you clear on the renovations or other projects the funds will be used for, and are you sure they’re legitimate expenditures under the grant’s requirements? Set a timetable and mark your calendar for all points at which you’ll need to have items ready. Break it down and keep making more notes. You’ll use them. Stay organized and you’ll have a better chance of staying on track.

Finally, answer all the questions and keep to the format given. Try to understand what the funder wants, so that your response matches not only the questions, but the intent of the grant. Don’t assume that they have heard of you, or your organization, and do explain who you are and why you need the grant. But keep it brief, because no matter how well you’ve written your application, everyone’s patience has a limit.

Ask Wisely, Receive Access Help: ADA Accessibility Grants

As part of its mission to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses, organizations, and some housing providers to make reasonable efforts to get their services and facilities accessible. Parallel to that, practical advice and funding is available to make this happen.

Accessibility is a process and a goal that doesn’t remain static. So, whether you’re an individual or representing a large organization, whether you’re handling accessibility-driven integrations to a new space or project, or you’re managing adjustments to an ongoing environment or situation, stay aware of all the ways that accessibility can and must be made a part of your plan. And, with the awareness that you may be eligible to receive some very necessary help to provide much-needed services and accommodations, take advantage of the various types of ADA grants available. They’re there to make it easier for everyone.

ADA compliance is more than a legal obligation; making room for accessible solutions that include everyone is a moral imperative. By following the steps outlined in this article and by conducting and acting on thorough research, individuals and organizations can increase their chances of successfully applying for and receiving ADA accessibility grants. Remember, creating a more accessible environment is an investment that benefits everyone: you, your organization, people with and without disabilities, and both local and larger communities.

Make A Difference

How can you take action to spread awareness and help others apply for and get ADA accessibility grants?

• Your experience can help and inspire others. Have you or your organization applied for an ADA grant, or wished you had? Share your story in the comments below. And, add your feedback and questions!
• Sharing knowledge is both powerful and empowering. You can share this blog on social media, with friends and family, or with relevant organizations.
• Reach out. Feel free to contact us with questions about ADA accessibility grants, or advice on programs.

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