Assistive Technology Fund Grant is sponsored by National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi (NFBMS). This statewide program expands access to non-medical assistive technology for legally blind or blind residents of Mississippi who are ineligible for traditional funding sources.

Assistive Technology Fund Grant | National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi Assistive Technology Fund Grant Assistive Technology Fund Grant Assistive Technology Fund Grant National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi (NFBMS) Bridging Access Through Innovation The National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi (NFBMS) proudly offers the Assistive Technology Fund Grant , a statewide program designed to expand access to assistive tools for legally blind or blind residents.

This grant helps individuals who are ineligible for traditional funding sources acquire specialized technology that enhances personal independence and day-to-day functionality in the home and community. This initiative serves as a consumer outreach program , not a substitute for vocational rehabilitation or medical support.

The program focuses exclusively on assistive devices that are non-medical , carry no residual or recurring costs , and are explicitly designed to benefit legally blind or blind individuals in non-vocational, non-employment settings .

Applicants must meet all the following requirements to be considered: Be legally blind or blind , as verified by a current eye report from a licensed ophthalmologist, optometrist, vocational counselor, director of VORB, or Director of blindness training. Be a permanent resident of Mississippi .

Have had no open or active case with the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) or any independent living program within the past 12 months . Be ineligible for equipment assistance from vocational rehabilitation or independent living programs. Request assistive technology or software that: It is non-medical in purpose.

Involves no ongoing subscription, licensing, or maintenance costs . Has not been previously purchased or reimbursed through other programs. It is designed to support independent living for the blind or legally blind.

Maximum Grant Amount : Up to $500. 00 . Co-Payment Requirement : A mandatory 20% co-payment of the total equipment cost, plus any amount that exceeds the $500 cap.

Disbursement : All funds are disbursed directly to the approved vendor —never to the applicant. Payment Deadline : The co-payment must be received within 30 calendar days of award notification. Failure to do so will result in automatic forfeiture of the grant.

Grant Limit : One grant per individual every two years , based on the award date. Items and Services Not Covered This grant will not cover : Any technology categorized as medical equipment , including diagnostic tools, therapy devices, or biometric health monitors. Equipment or software that carries recurring costs , such as subscriptions, license renewals, or maintenance fees.

Standard consumer electronics , including but not limited to desktop/laptop computers, monitors, printers, and general-purpose software packages. Equipment already purchased, owned, or reimbursed . Equipment purchased from private individuals or informal resale channels.

Devices priced below $100. 00 before tax and shipping. Additional Considerations Refurbished equipment may be considered if it includes a valid warranty and passes committee review.

NFBMS may approve assistive devices that were returned in good working condition and are offered at 50% of their original price , subject to committee approval and inventory availability. If the requested item is related to employment or job training , applicants must first apply through the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) or another vocational funding source.

Definition of Assistive Technology For this program, assistive technology refers to devices or software specifically developed for use by legally blind or blind individuals to support independent living in home or community environments. These products must be non-medical and free of any recurring financial obligations .

To apply, applicants must submit: A completed Assistive Technology Fund Grant Application (available in accessible formats). A current eye report verifying legal blind or blindness. A detailed letter of need describing: The specific assistive device being requested.

How the device will improve your independence. Confirmation that the device is not for medical or vocational use . Submit all documentation by mail or email to the address listed on the application form.

The NFBMS Technology Committee reviews applications monthly and notifies all applicants of their status. If approved, further instructions will be provided regarding co-payment and vendor coordination. For questions about eligibility, documentation, or the application process—or to request an application in a specific format—please contact: Email: nfb.

technology@outlook. com At NFBMS, we believe access to technology should not be a barrier to independence . This grant is one of the many ways we work to ensure blind Mississippians can fully participate in life, learning, and community.

We welcome your application and are honored to support your journey. Click to download the Technology App