What State AT Programs Are
Separate from federal programs like IDEA Part B, every U.S. state and territory operates a federally supported State Assistive Technology Act Program, established under the Assistive Technology Act. These programs vary significantly by state, but most offer some combination of short-term device loan libraries, low-interest financing or loan programs, and in some states, direct grants or mini-grants to schools or districts.
Because these programs are state-run, the specific funding available, the application process, and the eligibility rules differ from one state to the next — there is no single national application or funding amount.
Start here: search "[your state] Assistive Technology Act Program" or check the CATADA (Coalition for Assistive Technology Act Data Analysis) state program directory to find your state's specific program and current application process.
Common Program Types
While every state's program is structured differently, most fall into one or more of these categories:
- Device loan libraries: short-term loans of assistive technology (including reading pens) so a school or family can trial a device before purchasing — useful for confirming a device meets a student's need before committing district funds.
- Low-interest loan programs: financing for individuals or, in some states, institutions to purchase assistive technology, repaid over time rather than funded as a grant.
- Direct mini-grants: some states periodically offer small competitive grants directly to school staff or districts for classroom assistive technology — availability and timing vary by state and by budget year.
- Device reutilization/exchange programs: some states run exchanges where used assistive technology is refurbished and redistributed at low or no cost.
How This Differs From Federal Funding
| Federal (IDEA Part B / Title I / Title III) | State AT Program | |
|---|---|---|
| Administered by | The district, using federal formula funds. | A state-designated agency (varies by state). |
| Eligibility basis | Tied to IEP status, school Title I eligibility, or EL status. | Varies by state — some serve any resident with a disability, not only students. |
| Typical funding type | Formula grant built into the district's annual budget. | Often loan, exchange, or competitive mini-grant — not guaranteed annual funding. |
| Application path | Internal — through the IEP, Title I plan, or Title III plan. | External — application directly to the state AT program. |
Using a State Program Alongside District Funding
A state AT loan library can be a practical first step even when a federal funding path already exists — borrowing a device to confirm it meets a student's specific reading needs before the district commits IDEA Part B, Title I, or Title III funds to a full purchase reduces the risk of buying the wrong model or missing an accommodation requirement.