Investing In Accessibility
We aren't waiting for change, we are investing in it. Investing in Accessibility is dedicated to exploring the intersection of accessibility, entrepreneurship, and impact investing. Join hosts Kelvin Crosby and Chris Maher as they speak with entrepreneurs and thought leaders who are focused on empowering people with disabilities and creating a more accessible world.
Kelvin Crosby is CEO of Smart Guider Inc., which develops navigation technology enabling deafblind individuals to travel independently. Known as The DeafBlind Potter, he funded his first invention, the See Me Cane, through pottery sales. Kelvin lives with Usher Syndrome type 2 and is a staunch advocate for accessibility.
Chris Maher is the Founder & General Partner at Samaritan Partners, a public benefit venture fund that invests in the disability sector. Chris founded Samaritan after spending 25 years as an operator and multi-time CEO at a variety of venture capital-backed companies, and 20 years raising two daughters with disabilities.
Investing In Accessibility
Disability-Driven Innovation: Bob Ludke & the Power of an Inclusive Economy
In this episode of Investing in Accessibility, co-hosts Kelvin Crosby and Chris Maher speak with Bob Ludke, co-founder of Value Inclusion and author of "Case Studies in Disability-Driven Innovation." Bob shares his background in disability policy with Senator Tom Harkin and his journey through public policy, sustainability, and ESG.
Universal Design as a Business Strategy:
The heart of Bob's message is that universal design isn't just good for society but also a strategic business imperative that expands market reach and drives long-term profitability. He highlights companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Disney Shanghai as examples of inclusive design driving profitability. Bob also shares the inspiring story of Daniel Toops, an autistic entrepreneur who created JT Firestarters using recycled materials.
Bob's book, "Case Studies in Disability-Driven Innovation," is a master class about potential. It's about the potential of people, it's about the potential economic value that can be created through disability-driven innovation, and it's about the potential impact that it has to make our lives richer, more valuable, and healthier for all. Ultimately, it's about creating a better future through an inclusive economy.
To Learn More About Bob Ludke:
Bob's LinkedIn
Bob's company Value Inclusion
Bob's new book: "Case Studies in Disability-Driven Innovation"
COMING SOON!
American Sign Language (ASL) and Captioning for each episode will be provided on our YouTube channel. Go to handle @SamaritanPartners.