TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Accessibility Funding

Investing in Accessibility: Chris Maher’s Podcast Unveils Venture Capital’s Accessibility Blind Spot

by

By Jennifer Allen

What do a deaf-blind potter and an accessible travel booking platform have in common? 

High return investment potential.

In the world of venture capital, accessibility has often been overlooked. But Chris Maher, founder and general partner of Samaritan Partners, is working to change that. His new podcast, Investing in Accessibility, delves into the intersection of accessibility, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and impact investing, highlighting the ways in which innovation can drive both social change and financial returns.

The Mission Behind the Podcast

Like many in the disability inclusion space, Chris Maher became an advocate through personal connection. As dad to two girls with disabilities, his perspective expanded to take in the gap in opportunities for people with disabilities. 

Samaritan Partners, is a social impact venture fund that exclusively supports early-stage, for-profit companies serving the disability community. These companies range from accessible travel businesses like Wheel the World to AI-driven ASL interpretation platforms.  Recognizing the vast potential of the disability market—comprising over 1.5 billion people globally—Maher launched Investing in Accessibility alongside co-host Kelvin Crosby to amplify conversations around accessible entrepreneurship and investing.

A key theme across the podcast is the vast economic potential of accessibility. Each episode features thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors who are making a difference in the disability space. 

 “The disposable income around that population is in the low trillions of dollars. And when you include family, friends, and caregivers, the market is significant, to say the least,” Chris shares.

Companies that prioritize inclusive design often find that their innovations benefit a much wider audience. Consider the curb-cut effect – “originally designed for wheelchair users, curb cuts are now essential for parents with strollers, delivery workers, and more.” We see this pattern continuously with inclusive design.

Moreover, businesses that embrace accessibility see significant financial benefits. In fact, Chris shares that “Companies that take an inclusive approach—whether for their employees or customers—see the benefits. Revenue and profitability go up. Customer retention improves. Employee engagement and productivity increase.” The financial sector, for example, is recognizing that as their customer base ages, accessibility will be critical for serving them effectively. 

The Journey So Far

Since launching the podcast, Maher and Crosby have covered a variety of topics, introducing listeners to inspiring stories and groundbreaking innovations. From the deaf-blind potter to the accessible travel booking platform, each episode explores how accessibility can drive business growth. There are consistent themes of market opportunity.

Future episodes will continue to feature leaders in inclusive design, financial services, and disability-focused entrepreneurship.

Expanding the Investment Landscape

One of Maher’s primary goals with both Samaritan Partners and Investing in Accessibility is to attract more investors to the disability sector. While there are a handful of disability-focused funds, funding for disabled entrepreneurs from general venture funds is nearly nonexistent. Historically, support for the disability community has come from nonprofits and government initiatives. Private investors have the opportunity to benefit financially while driving real change.

Chris believes this gap is due in part to the lack of disability representation in the VC space. Investors need to see the revenue – and that’s what this podcast aims to show them

By spotlighting successful entrepreneurs and investment opportunities, Investing in Accessibility aims to shift perceptions and encourage mainstream investors to recognize the value in this growing sector. 

Looking Ahead and DEI

As Maher and Crosby continue their journey with Investing in Accessibility, they hope to reach not just entrepreneurs and disability advocates but also institutional investors, venture capitalists, and corporate leaders. In a season when DEI is being pushed back, this podcast is reminding listeners that DEI was never about tokenism. The disability community doesn’t want to be handed opportunities just because they’re disabled, they want to be considered for opportunities based on their qualifications. This is where the overlooked money is –  investing in good, scalable business opportunities that are coming from a forgotten population.

The podcast is only five episodes in, but each episode is reinforcing the powerful message for investors that an investment in accessibility and inclusion is an investment for all.

Check out the podcast, here.

Ann Arbor Area Becomes First Destination in Michigan to Achieve “Destination Verified” Status for Accessible Travel

by

Ann Arbor leads the way with Wheel the World’s verification program.

Ann Arbor, MI – (November 18, 2024) The greater Ann Arbor area proudly announces its recognition as the first destination in Michigan to achieve the “Destination Verified” status with Wheel the World, a global accessibility platform. This designation, supported by the Pure Michigan Accessible Traveler Grant, highlights the region’s commitment to accessible tourism for travelers with physical, cognitive, and invisible disabilities.

The Wheel the World “Destination Verified” status recognizes communities that have undergone a rigorous, third-party accessibility assessment. In the Ann Arbor area, dozens of businesses, attractions, and hotels received confidential assessments led by the Disability Network of Washtenaw Monroe Livingston (DNWML), whose team was trained by Wheel the World to conduct thorough evaluations. These listings now appear on Wheel the World’s global platform, allowing visitors to easily identify accessible features at hotels, attractions, restaurants and other businesses. 

The Wheel the World “Destination Verified” status recognizes communities that have undergone a rigorous, third-party accessibility assessment.

“Being the first in Michigan to achieve this status is an incredible milestone,” said Sarah Miller, President & CEO of Destination Ann Arbor. “Our partnership with Wheel the World reflects our dedication to making our communities in Washtenaw County a welcoming, inclusive destination where all travelers can enjoy our vibrant community and experiences.” 

The Pure Michigan Accessible Traveler Grant provided essential support for this initiative, aligning with the state’s broader mission to enhance accessible travel throughout Michigan. “Accessibility is at the heart of our mission to ensure that travel is accessible to everyone, and all are welcome in Pure Michigan,” said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We are thrilled to congratulate Destination Ann Arbor on achieving Destination Verified status and will look forward to seeing the positive impact this initiative will have on our efforts to promote accessible and inclusive travel experiences across the state.”

In partnership with the Disability Network of Washtenaw Monroe Livingston, local assessors were trained by Wheel the World to evaluate accessibility features across businesses, capturing over 200 different data points. These assessments go beyond standard ADA compliance to provide detailed and personalized accessibility information. For example, the evaluations include mapping out hotel bed heights, as some individuals require beds that are lower to the ground for safe transfers, while others may need beds that are higher. Because everyone’s accessibility needs vary, travelers using the Wheel the World platform can search for accommodations and attractions tailored to their specific requirements. “We’re pleased to support this initiative by assessing a wide range of local businesses and work to create a culture of accessibility in our community,” said Alex Gossage, Executive Director of the Disability Network of Washtenaw Monroe Livingston. “This project highlights the importance of creating a destination that values and prioritizes accessibility and inclusion for everyone.”

Participating businesses received detailed accessibility assessments and access to the Wheel the World Academy—a series of training videos on accessibility best practices, dispelling myths, and enhancing understanding around accessibility. These resources enable businesses to better meet the needs of travelers of all abilities, supporting the community’s long-term commitment to inclusivity.

“Achieving the ‘Destination Verified’ status is a testament to the Ann Arbor area’s dedication to accessible tourism,” said Camilo Navarro, Co-Founder of Wheel the World. “Through our joint efforts, we’re making it easier for travelers with accessibility needs to explore and enjoy the destination with confidence.”

The Ann Arbor area’s new “Destination Verified” status with Wheel the World sets a statewide precedent for accessible travel and signals a significant step toward more inclusive tourism throughout Michigan. For more information about the Ann Arbor area’s accessible travel options and partnership with Wheel the World, visit: https://www.annarbor.org/wheel-the-world/ 

CONTACT:

Chad Wiebesick, Director of Public Affairs 

(734) 995-7281

cwiebesick@annarbor.org

http://www.AnnArbor.org

Is this an Example of Ultimate in DMO Accessibility Content Pages?  

by

In their latest iteration, Visit Charlottesville Albemarle County may have created the most comprehensive accessible landing page anywhere and a model for all to follow. 

CHARLOTTESVILLE ALBEMARLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU UNVEILS NEW ACCESSIBILITY LANDING PAGE AND FUTURE ACCESSIBILITY EFFORTS

These accessibility efforts will continue into 2025 and beyond as the CACVB works to create a more welcoming environment for all visitors in Charlottesville and Albemarle County

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau (CACVB) is excited to announce a new accessibility landing page and grant-funded efforts aimed at improving accessibility infrastructure for visitors and residents. As part of its comprehensive American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, Albemarle County and the City of Charlottesville provided funds to the CACVB to build the tourism industry back stronger following the severe impacts of COVID-19. A portion of this funding supported more than 60 accessibility assessments for local tourism-related businesses and attractions through a strategic partnership with Wheel the World.

These efforts led to Charlottesville and Albemarle County being designated as Destination Verified by Wheel the World. This distinction sets the community apart from other destinations due to its wealth of accessible locations and experiences. The new CACVB landing page highlights these accessible experiences and provides important information about businesses with step-free and/or accessible entrances, transportation and parking, and accessible accommodation details like bed height, toilet height, and space available under bathroom sinks.“This accessibility information is not only available to visitors looking for things to do, but also our residents,” said Courtney Cacatian, Executive Director of the CACVB. “With our recently passed strategic plan, we will continue building out these accessible experiences allowing us to foster a welcoming community for all visitors.”

In spring 2023, the CACVB secured a $20,000 DRIVE Outdoor grant through the Virginia Tourism Corporation to imagine the future of outdoor recreation in the area. The CACVB convened a stakeholder group consisting of City and County Parks and Recreation departments, the Shenandoah National Park, outdoor recreation outfitters, and environmental groups. This stakeholder group determined that the grant funds should be used to invest in accessible river equipment and training, which could be used by residents and visitors alike.

This funding was provided to the Rivanna River Company (RRC) to purchase three special adaptive kayaks. Additionally, RRC has created four accessible parking spots made from stone dust, giving visitors with mobility issues access to the site. RRC also used compacted stone dust to make the entrance area and a path to the accessible portable toilet more navigable. The adaptive kayak program will launch in spring 2025. Photos of the adaptive kayaks can be found here.

This winter, the CACVB will embark on another stakeholder engagement exercise to identify and promote accessible experiences for history lovers. Following stakeholder engagement meetings, the CACVB will apply for a $10,000 grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation to build an itinerary to promote and amplify these efforts. Influencers with accessibility needs will be invited to explore local sites and attractions that offer welcoming experiences.

For more detailed information on how the CACVB went through its extensive accessibility work, please listen to the Destinations International Architects of Destination Advocacy podcast.

InnovateAble Showcase Celebrates Cutting-Edge Assistive Technology and Accessibility Solutions

by

In a dynamic display of innovation and commitment to accessibility, the 6th Annual InnovateAble Showcase took center stage on July 26th, commemorating the 34th anniversary of the ADA.  Hosted by Travelability, this “shark tank” style event featured groundbreaking assistive technologies designed to break down barriers for travelers with disabilities.

Key Highlights:

  1. Be My Eyes Wins Judges’ Selection: Be My Eyes, a visionary platform connecting blind and visually impaired individuals in customer call centers and visitor centers with Chat GTP 4  AI visual interpreters, secured the top spot among the judges’ selections.  See their website, here.
  2. 360 Direct Video Triumphs as People’s Choice: Attendees enthusiastically voted 360 Direct Video as their favorite. This immersive video platform allows travel suppliers to communicate with deaf and hard of hearing users in multiple ways fostering inclusivity and expanding horizons for all.
  3. Hero Door Opener and Glidance Shine: Hero Door Opener, an ingenious adaptive hinge mechanism that automates doors in hotels using a battery operated unit in the door hinge, and Glidance, a smart navigational assistance device also impressed both judges and attendees alike.

Jake Steinman, founder of Travelability, summed up the event: “The InnovateAbile Showcase exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that’s creating a more inclusive world for everyone. These groundbreaking technologies not only enhance travel experiences but also reinforce the spirit of the ADA, a law that has made America the most accessible country in the world.”

Congratulations to all of the InnovateAble finalists. They were chosen from over 100 companies that TravelAbility vetted for the competition.

Finalists:

Glidance

Rollz

Whimble

360 Direct Video

True Omni

Be My Eyes

We Hear You (Hero Door Opener)

Kulture City

Sign Speak

Travel Genius

Judges’ Selection 

  1. Be My Eyes 
  2. Hero Door Opener
  3. 360 Direct Video

People’s Choice (attendees)

  1. 360 Direct Video
  2. Be My Eyes/Hero Hinge (tie)
  3. Glidance

Katy Roberts, Portfolio Manager for Racoon Media Group, which manages the seven Abilities Expo events through North America, commented: “As one of the judges, I was hugely impressed by all of the pitches, the professionalism, innovative and pioneering solutions to bring more independence to the disability community. I can’t wait to see how all these companies develop their ideas in the future.”

 
“This was an extraordinary selection of innovative technologies,” commented Chris Maher, Founder of Samaritan Partners. “We have invested in two of the companies that were featured. Assistive products that have a business-to-business application are very attractive to venture investors and private capital because they don’t require massive investment to reach the end consumers.”

Travelability: Travelability is a trailblazing organization dedicated to making travel accessible for everyone. Through events like the InnovateAbile Showcase, they champion groundbreaking solutions that redefine the boundaries of travel.

Glidance Wins InnovateAble @DI Pitchfest: Revolutionizing Mobility for the Blind

by

Tampa Bay, FL – July 18, 2024 – In a groundbreaking event celebrating the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Glidance emerged as the champion in the InnovateAble @DI Pitchfest. The competition, hosted by TravelAbility and held in conjunction with Destinations International’s annual convention, showcased cutting-edge innovations designed to remove barriers for travelers with disabilities. The Final Four were selected from over 45 companies seen at CES, CSUN, Abilities Expo and through an extensive product hunt.

The winner: Glidance: Pioneering Self-Guided Mobility for the Blind

Glidance, the world’s first self-guided mobility aid, combines artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor technology to create a robotic version of the service dog. Designed specifically for individuals with visual impairments, Glidance offers a revolutionary solution for navigating airports, hotels, and public spaces. Judges were impressed by its affordability and potential impact on the blind community.

“Amos Miller, the founder of Glidance, faced a critical question during the competition,” noted Jake Steinman, curator of the InnovateAble program. “Would this device render guide dogs obsolete? His response was insightful: While there are 9 million blind individuals in the U.S., there are only 80,000 guide dogs. Glidance fills a crucial gap and has ample room for growth.”

Other Remarkable Innovations

The InnovateAble @DI Pitchfest also featured three other remarkable innovations:

  1. AccessRec (Mobility): Co-founded by the creator of Mobi Mats, AccessRec introduced the concept of universally designed beaches. Their line beach mats, beach wheelchairs, and other recreational accessories make beaches, lakes, and uneven surfaces accessible to all.
  2. 360 Direct Video (Deafness): Empower 360 leverages AI-enabled American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters in multiple languages. These avatars provide real-time ASL interpretation via video, enhancing communication for deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers.
  3. Neurodiversity/Autism: Travelers with hidden disabilities and a sunflower lanyard that is now recognized in over 240 airports in over30 countries around the world .

TravelAbility and Destinations International remain committed to fostering innovation that empowers travelers of all abilities. The InnovateAble @DI Pitchfest exemplifies their dedication to creating a more inclusive and accessible travel industry.

About TravelAbility: TravelAbility is a leading organization dedicated to advancing accessible travel and tourism. Through partnerships, education, and advocacy, TravelAbility strives to make travel a seamless experience for everyone, regardless of ability.

About Destinations International: Destinations International is the world’s largest resource for official destination organizations, representing over 6,000 professionals from 600 destinations in 15 countries. Their mission is to drive economic development through travel and tourism.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Your name and email will never be sold to third parties.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Your name and email will never be sold to 3rd parties.