The American Council of the Blind is honored to share the below information regarding our collaboration with Blind Information Technology Specialists (BITS) and Microsoft. Collaboration is a core value for ACB, and this opportunity for our members to help shape the future of assistive technology while being compensated for their time and effort is a great example.
Please read to the end of this message to learn how you can participate in this initiative.
Blind Information Technology Specialists (BITS), an affiliate of the American Council of the Blind (ACB), is proud to announce a landmark nine-month partnership with Microsoft Corporation. This initiative will empower BITS members to directly influence the future of accessibility across Microsoft Narrator and M365 apps such as Word and Outlook — ensuring technology continues to break down barriers and open doors for people who are blind or have low vision.
At the heart of this collaboration is a shared belief that accessibility is not an afterthought but a fundamental driver of innovation. Through monthly scenario-based evaluations, selected BITS participants will provide rich, real-world feedback on their user experiences. Their insights will help Microsoft refine and expand accessibility features, making everyday technology more inclusive for millions of people worldwide.
“This project reflects our core mission,” said Jeff Bishop, President of BITS. “The primary goal of BITS is to truly meet people where they are and to empower people through the use of technology. This partnership will allow BITS members to not only have a significant impact on the future of software and technology, but it also gives our members who apply an opportunity to supplement their income and to be recognized for their efforts.”
Microsoft echoed the significance of the collaboration.
“Accessibility is a priority for Microsoft and we are proud to collaborate across the community to advance our products. We welcome feedback from blind and low vision users and are excited to extend our partnership with ACB to do just that. Partnering with BITS and ACB allows us to listen directly to the voices of blind and low-vision users,” said Clint Covington, E+D Accessibility Group Program Manager, Microsoft. “Their lived experiences are invaluable in guiding the evolution of Windows Narrator and M365 apps such as Word and Outlook especially as we add more AI capabilities.”
The American Council of the Blind also praised the initiative.
“ACB is proud to support this partnership, which places our members at the center of product innovation,” said Kolby Garrison, Accessibility & Training Services Coordinator with ACB. “This program not only advances accessibility but also recognizes the expertise of blind and low-vision individuals, making them partners in shaping the technology of tomorrow.”
By engaging directly with Microsoft, BITS members will gain unique opportunities for professional growth, recognition, and tangible contributions to the technologies they rely on daily. For Microsoft, the partnership offers authentic insights from end-users whose lived experiences are essential to designing truly inclusive products.
“This is more than just a partnership — it’s a chance for our community to leave a lasting mark on the tools that shape modern life,” Bishop added.
Membership in BITS is required to participate in this opportunity.
To become a member of BITS, visit:
Select “Join or Gift BITS”