About the InnovAbility Network
A national initiative advancing disability inclusion through innovation, technology, and evidence
Anchored in the work of the RISEI Lab at Northwestern University, the InnovAbility Network brings together leaders across vocational rehabilitation, disability advocacy, research, technology, education, and policy to reimagine what is possible for people with disabilities in the labor market.
Our Purpose
Building bridges across systems to advance disability employment
Innovation for Real-World Change
We surface, test, and share promising practices—from AI tools to transition models to new collaboration strategies—that measurably improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities.
Evidence That Moves Policy & Practice
Our network elevates research insights and demonstration project findings so VR agencies, educators, workforce partners, and community organizations can use data to inform decision-making.
Cross-Sector Collaboration
Lasting change requires alignment across systems. We connect leaders from VR, education, workforce, disability advocacy, tech development, and government to co-design solutions that can be adopted nationwide.
What We Do
Technology
AI, assistive tech, robotics, and digital tools that expand access, independence, and employment opportunities.
Policy & Systems
Cross-agency collaboration and system change that support competitive integrated employment and inclusive workforce development.
Disability Leadership
Centering lived experience and expertise. People with disabilities are not just participants—they are co-designers, experts, and leaders guiding the direction of this network.
Hosted by RISEI Lab at Northwestern University
Research-driven partnership advancing disability employment nationwide
Research and Innovation for Social and Economic Inclusion (RISEI) Lab
Northwestern University
The InnovAbility Network was founded through projects led by the RISEI Lab at Northwestern University, focusing on cutting-edge research and innovation in disability employment.
About the RISEI Lab
The Research and Innovation for Social and Economic Inclusion (RISEI) Lab is a research hub dedicated to advancing knowledge on critical social and economic challenges. The Lab conducts rigorous, data-driven studies at the intersection of technology, workforce, education, and social policy.
RISEI examines how innovations such as automation, artificial intelligence, and broadband access shape opportunities and risks for diverse populations.
RISEI Lab Research Focus
Partnerships with state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and international organizations
Core Research Areas
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1
Disability employment
Research on employment outcomes and workforce participation
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2
Vocational rehabilitation innovation
Testing and evaluating new VR service delivery models
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3
Technology impacts on opportunity
Automation, broadband, and AI effects on employment access
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4
Subminimum wage reform and CIE policy
Policy analysis and competitive integrated employment strategies
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5
Transition services and pathways for youth
Education-to-employment pipeline research and interventions
Together with national partners, RISEI provides the foundation for the InnovAbility Network's evidence-informed work.
Explore RISEI ResearchOur Mission
Turn innovation into impact—practical, scalable, and grounded in lived experience.
We bridge gaps in disability employment by connecting systems, surfacing insights, and building a national community focused on solutions that scale.
Join the Network
The InnovAbility Network is for anyone shaping the future of work for people with disabilities—from researchers and policymakers to VR professionals, employers, technologists, and people with disabilities themselves.