Google just committed more than $1.2 million to make AI education accessible for students with disabilities, marking National Disability Employment Awareness Month with its largest accessibility investment yet. The tech giant is funding two key nonprofits while launching new partnerships to bridge the digital divide in classrooms nationwide.
Google is doubling down on accessible education with its most significant disability-focused investment announcement yet. The company revealed it's channeling over $1.2 million through Google.org to two nonprofits specifically targeting AI education gaps for students with disabilities.
CSEveryone landed the biggest chunk - nearly $1 million - to tackle what Google calls "the lack of inclusive computer science and AI education for K-12 students with disabilities." The organization plans to expand beyond its current success stories in Broward County and Chicago, rolling out nationally accessible credentials and new partnerships.
Meanwhile, Tech Kids Unlimited received close to $250,000 to digitize their teacher portal, bringing tech and career-readiness courses to neurodiverse learners across the NYC area. "A more accessible world starts in a classroom where students have the products and resources they need to do their best work," Kevin Kells, Google's Global Director of Education, said in the announcement.
The timing isn't coincidental. October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month, but Google's push reflects broader industry recognition that accessibility isn't just about compliance - it's about tapping into underserved talent pools.
Google's also rolling out hardware improvements. Chromebooks now feature Face Control, letting students navigate screens using facial gestures and head movements. Combined with existing features like screen reader support and voice typing in Google Docs, the company's building what it calls a "multi-faceted solution" for inclusive learning.
The announcement comes alongside a new partnership with Understood.org, the nonprofit behind "Through My Eyes" - an immersive digital experience helping educators understand students with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. "Through real-life simulations and heartfelt stories, it helps shift perspectives, offering a firsthand look at the everyday challenges that often go unseen," according to the partnership details.
Google co-hosted last month's Global Forum on Neuroinclusion with partner Everway in New York, bringing together leaders to discuss how AI tools are transforming neuroinclusivity. The event signals Google's broader strategy - positioning itself as the go-to platform for accessible education technology.
