Your nonprofit’s digital accessibility could be the key to unlocking more grant opportunities—or the barrier keeping you from them. Here’s what you need to know about the connection between ADA compliance and grant funding.

The Hidden Connection Between ADA Compliance and Grant Funding

Federal agencies, foundations, and corporate sponsors are increasingly prioritizing organizations that demonstrate commitment to inclusion and accessibility. When your website, online donation forms, or digital resources aren’t accessible to people with disabilities, you’re missing out on grant opportunities that require ADA compliance.

Why Grant Makers Care About Digital Accessibility

Grant makers want to ensure their funding reaches the widest possible audience. They’re asking: “Will this organization’s programs be accessible to people with disabilities?”

When nonprofits can’t demonstrate ADA compliance, it raises red flags about their ability to serve diverse communities effectively. Digital accessibility has become a standard measure of organizational commitment to inclusion.

Federal Grant Requirements: What You Need to Know

Federal grant programs have specific accessibility requirements:

• Section 508 Compliance: The Rehabilitation Act requires federal agencies to ensure electronic and information technology is accessible—this often extends to grant recipients
• Common Grant Requirements: Many grants from HHS, Department of Education, and HUD include accessibility clauses
• Risk of Non-Compliance: If your website doesn’t meet WCAG standards, you could lose current funding or be disqualified from future opportunities

Foundation and Corporate Grants: The Inclusion Factor

Private funders are also prioritizing accessibility:

• Major Foundations: Ford Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Gates Foundation have made public commitments to funding inclusive organizations
• Corporate Sponsors: Tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Apple have accessibility requirements built into their corporate giving programs
• DEI Initiatives: Many funders now require digital accessibility as part of diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements

Real-World Impact: What This Means for Your Nonprofit

Here’s how ADA compliance directly affects your grant eligibility:

• Application Process: Grant applications submitted through online portals require accessible formatting. Inaccessible supporting materials might prevent you from passing initial review
• Program Delivery: Grant makers fund programs that reach diverse populations. Inaccessible registration systems or educational materials limit your potential impact
• Reporting Requirements: Grant recipients need accessible data collection methods and reporting systems to meet ongoing requirements
• Sustainability: Accessible systems demonstrate long-term preparedness to serve your community effectively

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance creates significant risks:

• Legal Challenges: Accessibility-related lawsuits against nonprofits have increased dramatically
• Higher Costs: Retrofitting inaccessible websites costs more than building accessibility from the start
• Reputational Damage: Accessibility complaints can impact relationships with donors, volunteers, and partners

Making Digital Accessibility a Strategic Priority

Achieving ADA compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with these steps:

• Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Get a clear picture of where your digital properties stand—website, online forms, documents, and program delivery tools
• Prioritize High-Impact Areas: Focus first on critical touchpoints like donation pages, program registration forms, and key informational content
• Build Accessibility into Processes: Integrate accessibility into content creation, website updates, and digital communication workflows
• Document Your Efforts: Keep records of accessibility improvements for grant applications requiring evidence of ADA compliance

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The Competitive Advantage of Accessibility

Organizations that prioritize digital accessibility gain significant advantages:

• Grant Competition Edge: Demonstrating inclusive programs shows grant makers you understand the importance of serving diverse communities
• Improved Digital Presence: Accessible websites are more user-friendly for everyone, improving online fundraising and volunteer recruitment
• Future-Proofing: Early adoption positions your organization ahead of increasing accessibility requirements

Key Takeaways

• ADA compliance is increasingly required for federal, foundation, and corporate grants
• Non-compliance creates legal risks and limits funding opportunities
• Accessible digital systems demonstrate organizational commitment to inclusion
• Investment in accessibility pays dividends in grant eligibility and community impact

Digital accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s a strategic investment in your organization’s sustainability and mission effectiveness. When you make your digital presence accessible, you open doors to community members who might otherwise be excluded while positioning yourself for greater funding success.