Deadline: 22-Jul-2026
The Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Program supports organizations that help people with disabilities access assistive technology through affordable financing options. It funds models such as low-interest loans, revolving loan funds, loan guarantees, and insurance-based approaches, alongside financial education and credit-building support. The program aims to expand equitable access to assistive technology regardless of income, location, or disability type.
Overview of the Program
The program is designed to improve access to assistive technology (AT) by reducing financial barriers through structured financing systems. It is funded by the Administration for Community Living.
Rather than directly purchasing devices, the program strengthens financial access systems that enable individuals with disabilities to acquire the tools and services they need for independence.
Key Focus Areas
Assistive Technology Financing Systems
- Low-interest loan programs
- Revolving loan funds
- Loan guarantees
- Insurance-based financing models
- Interest buy-down programs
Consumer Choice and Control
- Ensuring individuals select their own assistive technology
- Expanding access across disability types
- Supporting self-determination in technology use
Financial Inclusion and Education
- Credit-building programs for participants
- Financial literacy and education initiatives
- Awareness of alternative funding sources
Equity and Accessibility
- Equal access regardless of income level
- Inclusion across disability types and ages
- Geographic accessibility (urban and rural inclusion)
Assistive Technology Access Expansion
- Financing for a wide range of AT devices
- Support for related services and equipment
- Removal of financial barriers to independence
Program Models Supported
1. Low-Interest Loan Funds
- Provide affordable borrowing options
- Reduce upfront cost barriers for assistive technology
2. Revolving Loan Funds
- Recycled capital system where repayments fund new loans
- Long-term sustainability model
3. Loan Guarantee Programs
- Reduce lender risk to encourage lending
- Expand access to mainstream credit systems
4. Insurance Programs
- Spread financial risk for assistive technology purchases
- Improve affordability over time
5. Interest Buy-Down Programs
- Reduce effective interest rates for borrowers
- Improve affordability of loans
Funding Details
- Total funding: $1,950,000
- Award ceiling: $700,000
- Award floor: $100,000
Eligible Applicants
Government Entities
- State governments
- Federally recognized Native American tribal governments
- Other Native American tribal organizations
- Public and state-controlled institutions of higher education
Nonprofit Organizations
- Nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status
- Organizations focused on disability services or financial access
Program Eligibility Emphasis
Applicants must demonstrate capacity to:
- Operate financing or lending programs
- Serve individuals with disabilities across populations
- Manage financial systems responsibly
- Deliver consumer-centered access models
Why This Program Matters
This program improves independence and quality of life for people with disabilities by addressing one of the biggest barriers to assistive technology: cost. By enabling flexible financing systems, it expands access to tools that support communication, mobility, employment, and daily living.
Key impacts:
- Increases access to assistive technology
- Reduces financial barriers for individuals with disabilities
- Promotes independence and self-determination
- Builds sustainable financing systems
- Encourages financial inclusion and literacy
How the Program Works
Step 1: Application Submission
- Organizations propose financing model
- Must outline loan, guarantee, or insurance structure
Step 2: Program Design Review
- Evaluation of sustainability and financial feasibility
- Assessment of consumer access and equity approach
Step 3: Funding Award
- Grants awarded between $100,000 and $700,000
- Implementation begins after approval
Step 4: Program Implementation
- Establish or expand financing mechanisms
- Deliver loans or financial support systems
Step 5: Consumer Access and Support
- Provide assistive technology financing to individuals
- Offer financial education and credit-building tools
Step 6: Monitoring and Reporting
- Track access, repayment, and outcomes
- Report program impact and equity measures
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Proposing direct equipment purchase programs instead of financing models
- Weak financial sustainability planning
- Limited consumer choice or restrictive eligibility design
- Lack of financial education components
- Poor risk management in lending structure
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define financing model (loan, guarantee, etc.)
- Demonstrate sustainability and repayment strategy
- Include strong consumer education and support components
- Emphasize equity and inclusion across disability groups
- Show experience in financial or assistive technology programs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Program?
It is a funding program that supports financing systems helping people with disabilities afford assistive technology.
What types of financing are supported?
Loans, revolving funds, loan guarantees, insurance models, and interest buy-down programs.
How much funding is available?
Between $100,000 and $700,000 per award.
Who can apply?
State governments, tribal governments, nonprofits, and public higher education institutions.
Does the program fund direct device purchases?
No, it funds financing systems rather than direct purchases.
Who benefits from this program?
Individuals with disabilities of all ages, incomes, and locations.
What is the main goal?
To improve equitable access to assistive technology through affordable financing systems.
Conclusion
The Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Program strengthens financial pathways that enable people with disabilities to access essential assistive technologies. By supporting sustainable lending and insurance models, it promotes independence, inclusion, and long-term accessibility across diverse communities.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.