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Funding

The Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT) Center at the University of Washington relies on a diverse and robust funding strategy to support its wide range of programs, research initiatives, and outreach efforts. This multi-faceted approach ensures the sustainability and growth of our mission to empower individuals with disabilities through technology, education, and advocacy.

Federal Grants

A significant portion of DO-IT's funding comes from federal grants. These typically include:

  1. National Science Foundation (NSF) Grants: DO-IT has been a recipient of numerous NSF grants over the years, particularly for projects related to increasing the participation of students with disabilities in STEM fields.
  2. U.S. Department of Education Grants: Through programs like the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE), DO-IT receives support for initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility in higher education.
  3. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Funding: For research projects related to health, assistive technology, and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

State and Local Government Support

DO-IT also receives funding from state and local government sources:

  1. Washington State Allocations: As part of the University of Washington, DO-IT benefits from state funding allocated to the university.
  2. Local Government Grants: City and county grants often support specific community outreach programs and local initiatives.

Private Foundations and Corporate Sponsorships

Private sector support plays a crucial role in DO-IT's funding mix:

  1. Foundation Grants: Organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation, and others have provided grants for specific programs and initiatives.
  2. Corporate Sponsorships: Technology companies and other corporations often sponsor DO-IT's programs, particularly those related to workforce development and digital accessibility.

Individual Donations

DO-IT has cultivated a community of individual donors who support its mission:

  1. Annual Giving Campaigns: Regular fundraising efforts targeting alumni, parents, and community supporters.
  2. Major Gifts: Significant donations from individuals, often earmarked for specific programs or endowments.
  3. Planned Giving: Estate gifts and bequests that contribute to DO-IT's long-term financial stability.

University Support

As a center within the University of Washington, DO-IT receives various forms of institutional support:

  1. Infrastructure and Facilities: Office space, utilities, and access to university resources.
  2. Administrative Support: Human resources, accounting, and other administrative services.
  3. Faculty Time: UW faculty members often contribute time to DO-IT projects as part of their research or service commitments.

Revenue-Generating Activities

DO-IT also engages in activities that generate revenue to support its programs:

  1. Training and Consulting Services: Offering expertise to other institutions and organizations on accessibility and inclusion.
  2. Publications and Materials: Sales of books, guides, and other resources developed by DO-IT.
  3. Conference and Event Fees: Registration fees from workshops, conferences, and other events organized by DO-IT.

This diverse funding approach allows DO-IT to maintain a stable financial foundation while having the flexibility to pursue new initiatives and respond to emerging needs in the disability community. By leveraging a combination of public funds, private support, and self-generated revenue, DO-IT ensures its ability to continue its vital work in promoting access, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities.