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Sample Materials
Developing a Funding Strategy
KNOWLEDGE!
The first thing to remember when seeking funding for assistive
technology is that funding is always available. However, the journey
may take a while and may try your patience. Do not give up!
Persistence, coupled with knowledge, is the key to success.
PREPARATION!
Determining age, disability, and other basic eligibility
criteria will shorten the process and allow you to “navigate the
funding streams”. Knowing what device or equipment is needed and for
what purpose(s) is an important factor, because all funding sources
have a particular focus or purpose, such as employment, medical, or
education. Knowing the purpose(s) or use of the assistive
technology, therefore, can assist you to narrow down the list of
possible funding sources. Ask questions; seek out information,
suggestions and guidance from your peers, services providers and
professionals in the field of assistive technology. Learn all that
you can! Gathering the right information and documenting your needs
are fundamental in your approach to obtaining funding and will
become a core part of your request to the funding source(s).
TAKE ACTION!
In developing a funding strategy, you should follow some basic
steps to increase your chances of success. The development and use
of funding worksheets can be beneficial and help you work with
accuracy and efficiency. We also recommend that you keep a diary of
names, phone numbers, and related notes.
| The following steps and
strategies are based on those presented previously in
the Georgia (1997), Kentucky (1992) and North Carolina
(1993) funding guides developed by these states'
assistive technology projects. We hope that these steps
will help you both understand the process of obtaining
funding and actually get funding assistance.
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There are
five steps to acquire funding for assistive technology:
Step 1: Why is
assistive technology needed?
Step 2: What
assistive device, equipment, or service is needed?
Step 3: What
potential funding sources are available?
Step 4: What
happens when my funding is approved?
Step 5: What
if my request is denied?
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