Technology & Training Fund Frequently Asked Questions
1. Eligibility Requirements
Do I have to be a member of ACBVA to receive funds?
No. You do not need to be an ACBVA member. The fund is intended to be a resource for blind and low-vision individuals across Virginia, regardless of affiliation with service providers or consumer organizations.
Do I have to be legally blind?
You must be blind or have low vision to qualify. You are required to provide verification of your vision status from an ophthalmologist, a medical professional, a DBVI Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, or another blindness-related service provider.
Do I need to be receiving Vocational Rehabilitation services from the state to apply?
No. Assistance provided through this fund is independent of the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) Vocational Rehabilitation Program. You do not need to be an active vocational rehabilitation customer to apply.
Can organizations apply?
No. The fund provides financial assistance specifically to individuals who are blind or have low vision and live in Virginia.
2. The Application and Review Process
How do I prove my financial need?
The application asks you to attest that you have financial need and briefly describe your justification. Examples may include receiving SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, living in affordable housing, being unemployed, or other circumstances. You will also be asked to describe efforts to obtain funding from other sources, such as DBVI.
Who reviews my application?
A committee of three to five members from the American Council of the Blind of Virginia (ACBVA) manages the fund and reviews applications.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Medical or personal information submitted will be used only to verify eligibility and administer the program. Information will be handled according to ACBVA privacy and record-retention procedures.
3. Financial Guidelines and Limits
How much can I receive?
Funding is generally capped at $1,000 per individual. This is typically divided into a maximum of $500 for technology and a maximum of $500 for training or specialized technical support.
Can I apply more than once?
Funding is generally capped at a total of $1,000 per individual. Exceptions may be considered case by case when significant need and sufficient justification are demonstrated.
What if the technology or training I need costs more than the funding cap?
If the cost exceeds the maximum allowance, you may choose to supplement the grant funds with your own personal funds.
4. Covered Technology and Equipment
What technology is covered?
Funding may cover a wide range of adaptive and assistive tools, including accessible computing devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and peripherals; software and applications such as screen readers, image-to-text conversion, and AI visual tools; Braille or tactile technology; smart home devices and wearables; and adaptive daily living devices such as magnifiers, specialty lighting, or kitchen aids.
5. Training and Technical Support Services
Can funding be used for training?
Yes. Up to $500 may be used for technology training or technical support.
What specific types of technical support and training are provided?
The fund may cover technology training, device setup, ad-hoc technical support, troubleshooting, and mainstream accessibility liaison services. This may include learning a new device, increasing proficiency with existing technology, resolving technical roadblocks, or helping communicate with mainstream technology support providers such as Microsoft, Apple, or internet service providers.
Where will the training take place?
Training and technical support will most often be provided remotely by phone or Zoom. Remote desktop assistance may be used when feasible and acceptable to the customer. In-person services may occur under limited or extenuating circumstances.
6. Working with Trainers
Do I get to choose my own trainer?
Yes. If you request training or technical support, you will select your own trainer or technician. ACBVA does not employ, assign, or manage trainers, but maintains a roster of qualified professionals who have completed a committee interview and reference check.
What happens if I want to use a trainer who isn’t on the ACBVA roster?
If you choose a trainer who is not in the ACBVA database, that person must be vetted and approved by ACBVA through a qualification review. This review may delay the start of services.
7. Post-Purchase Responsibilities and Follow-Up
What happens after I receive my technology or complete my training?
At intake, you will identify a primary functional goal. Thirty days after you obtain your technology or complete your training, an ACBVA volunteer may conduct a brief follow-up to see if this goal was met. You may also be asked to complete a satisfaction survey.
Does ACBVA provide warranties for the technology purchased?
No. ACBVA provides financial assistance only and does not warrant or guarantee hardware, software, training, or services. Customers are responsible for resolving disputes directly with the manufacturer, vendor, trainer, or service provider and for future renewals, warranties, maintenance agreements, or service plans.
8. Information for Prospective Trainers and Providers
Can trainers who reside out of state apply?
Yes. While the fund assists Virginia residents, qualified trainers and technical support providers from anywhere in the United States may apply. Because services are primarily remote, out-of-state technical experts are encouraged to apply.
Do I need formal industry certifications to become an approved trainer?
Formal certifications are desirable but not strictly required. ACBVA recognizes that professional-level experience providing technology training or support to blind and low-vision individuals may also demonstrate qualification.
How does a trainer get approved for the ACBVA roster?
Prospective trainers must complete an application, participate in a brief interview with the ACBVA committee, and successfully pass a reference check with three professional references.
How are trainers compensated, and what are the reporting requirements?
Trainers operate as independent contractors. The fund may reimburse approved trainers up to $50 per hour. Payment is made by ACBVA after the trainer submits an invoice and any required progress milestones or documentation.
Questions?
Technology and Training Review Committee
Phone: (540) 318-3450
Email: tech-fund@acbva.org