BBI brings together researchers, evaluators, trainers, and practitioners to address the most pressing challenges facing people with disabilities. Our work moves in two directions: our research and evaluation produce the evidence, and our training, technical assistance, outreach, and consulting put that evidence into practice. This combination allows us to inform policy, shape practices, and build capacity in the communities we serve.
Our work spans three interconnected areas. Within each, we address specific challenges where coordinated research and action can lead to lasting change.
Economic Participation
Advancing employment, entrepreneurship, and financial well-being for people with disabilities.
Financial Empowerment
Building financial literacy and economic self-sufficiency
Workplace and Employer Practices
Helping employers develop effective policies and accommodations
Return to Work
Supporting reentry into the labor market after disability, injury, illness, or absence
Entrepreneurship
Creating pathways to business ownership for people with disabilities
AI
Studying how artificial intelligence affects hiring, work, and opportunity
Assistive Technology
Evaluating tools that support productivity and economic participation
Civil Rights and Disability Law
Strengthening legal protections for people with disabilities and informing disability policy.
Supported Decision-Making
Advancing alternatives to guardianship that preserve autonomy
Legal Protections
Analyzing and strengthening disability rights law
Public Access
Ensuring access to public spaces, programs, and services
ADA
Research and technical assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act
Accessibility
Developing standards and practices for built and digital environments
Infrastructural Access
Addressing physical barriers in infrastructure
Community Participation
Improving access to the services and systems that shape daily life for people with disabilities.
Health
Improving health outcomes and access to care for people with disabilities
Housing
Expanding access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing
Education
Strengthening educational opportunities for people with disabilities
Emerging Technologies
Tracking how new technologies shape community life and participation
Civic Participation
Supporting engagement in public life, voting, and community decision-making
Arts and Culture
Expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in and shape the arts