The launch of a new disability-related application challenge, designed to generate innovative tools to improve employment opportunities and outcomes for individuals with disabilities has been announced by the US Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). The application’s launch comes nearly 22 years after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act and 39 years following the passage of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. 

Kathy Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy, articulates her excitement regarding the application, “Using today’s technology, we hope to inspire creative and innovative solutions to the pressing employment-related problems faced by people with disabilities,” Martinez emphasizes.

According to a news release, the application challenge aims to promote recruitment resources for employers, develop job training, and skill-building tools for jobseekers. The application’s goal also centers on facilitating employment-related transportation options and expand information communication technology accessibility.

The release notes that submissions must target a variety of audiences, such as students, teachers, employers, career counselors, workforce professionals, and individuals with disabilities working or seeking work. Submissions should also provide access to important data and resources, attract users with different skill sets, language preferences, be accessible and consider partnerships that will ensure the sustainability of the app.

Awards with cash prizes will reportedly be given to the top three submissions, these include a grand prize innovation award, second prize people’s choice Award, and third prize will receive the above and beyond accessibility award.

Winners will be featured on ODEP’s website 

To register, click here.

Source: ODEP