Upskilling and matching academy to gain employment for the blind and visually impaired

Blind Institute of Technology’s IT program in the U.S. trained 251 professionals with disabilities by 2023, helping them secure high-paying jobs in tech with accessible tools.

Blind Institute of Technology, a U.S.-based NGO, has developed an IT training and upskilling programme for disabled professionals. The online programme offers accessibility features, has a global audience, and is offered for free. BIT engages with U.S. employers to secure jobs for graduates, with starting salaries ranging from $40,000 to six figures. The programme graduated 251 students in 2023 and is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. 

Problems Targeted

Many countries have high unemployment rates among the blind and visually impaired due to insufficient accessible IT training and job placement services.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

BIT’s model focuses on a three-phased approach to employment: (1) education, (2) certification, and (3) opportunity. Placements can be in outside agencies or in BIT’s apprenticeship programme provided through partnerships with corporations, foundations, and government entities that support BIT’s mission. The online platform is equipped with various accessibility features to ensure that blind and visually impaired persons can fully participate in the training. This includes screen readers, voice-over functionalities, and other assistive technologies that make the content accessible. Examples of certification courses include Salesforce (Zero Project Awardee 2025) and a Digital Accessibility Analyst through the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies exam. BIT actively engages with employers to secure job placements for its graduates. This includes preparing candidates for job interviews, providing resume-building workshops, and offering ongoing post-placement support. It also works closely with employers to ensure that the workplace is accessible and that the needs of disabled employees are met. BIT has expanded to serve professionals who are deaf/hard of hearing, neurodivergent, have mobility disabilities, suffer from a chronic illness, and more. Between 2021 and 2023, 42 persons with disabilities gained employment, and 29 during the first half of 2024.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

BIT generates income through website auditing, consulting, and employer training. It is also funded through a combination of private donations and grants. Going forward, plans include developing additional courses and resources to further enhance the employability of graduates. The success of BIT’s model demonstrates its potential for replication in other regions and countries. By leveraging online platforms and engaging with local employers, similar programmes can be established globally. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

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The Blind Institute of Technology offers free, accessible IT training for professionals with disabilities.

The Blind Institute of Technology offers free, accessible IT training for professionals with disabilities.

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