InnovAbility Network
Advancing Disability Inclusion Through Innovation, Evidence & Collaboration
The InnovAbility Network is a national initiative dedicated to shaping the future of disability employment. We bring together researchers, vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies, policymakers, technologists, employers, and people with disabilities to accelerate solutions that expand opportunity, build inclusive systems, and prepare the workforce for the future of work.
Our mission is simple: Turn innovation into impact—practical, scalable, and grounded in lived experience.
Innovation
Technology, models, and tools driving change in VR and employment
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
Research, evaluation, and data that inform policy and 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.
Collaboration
Cross-sector partnerships and nationwide community-building
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.
National Conference on Technology, Innovation & Disability Employment
September 16–18, 2026 • Evanston, IL
Hosted by Research and Innovation for Social and Economic Inclusion (RISEI) Lab at Northwestern University
The National Conference on Technology, Innovation & Disability Employment brings together leaders across sectors to advance inclusive employment through evidence-based practice, emerging technologies, disability-led insights, and cross-agency systems change.
Innovation, Evidence & Impact
Innovative models & evidence-based practices improving employment outcomes
Technology, AI & Future of Work
Artificial intelligence, assistive technology, and robotics in the future of VR
Policy, Systems & Cross-Agency Solutions
Cross-agency strategies that shift systems, policies, and partnerships
Lived Experience & Co-Design
Centering expertise of people with disabilities as leaders and co-creators
Inclusive Education & Pathways
Inclusive education-to-employment pathways and workforce development
Who We Serve
Connecting diverse stakeholders across the disability employment ecosystem
VR Agencies
Access cutting-edge research, innovative tools, and proven models to enhance service delivery and outcomes
People with Disabilities
Lead the conversation, share lived experiences, and co-design the future of disability employment
Researchers
Connect research to practice, collaborate across disciplines, and ensure evidence drives innovation
Policymakers
Leverage data and best practices to inform policy decisions and systems-level change
Employers
Build inclusive hiring practices, access talent pipelines, and learn about accommodation innovations
Technology Developers
Co-create accessible tools with end users and understand real-world implementation challenges
Educators & Transition Professionals
Create inclusive pathways, build digital and employability skills, and support students' transition into meaningful careers
Disability Community Organizations
Advance advocacy, co-design innovations, and amplify the voices and leadership of people with disabilities
Workforce Development Professionals
Integrate inclusive practices across WIOA systems, strengthen training pathways, and support jobseekers through emerging technologies
Why InnovAbility Network?
Disability employment is evolving. Technology is transforming work. States are experimenting with new models. Policy is shifting. And people with disabilities are leading change in every sector.
But innovation is scattered. Evidence is not always shared. Promising practices often remain isolated.
The InnovAbility Network bridges these gaps—connecting systems, surfacing insights, and building a national community focused on solutions that scale.
2026
Inaugural Conference
2027
Network Expansion
Beyond
National Membership Community