Article from Beyond the Label

Hiring a qualified person with a disability brings greater benefits beyond just filling an open job. There’s a solid business case, too. Here are just a few of the benefits of hiring people with disabilities:

Return on Investment

Businesses that employ people with disabilities turn social issues into business opportunities. These opportunities translate into lower costs, higher revenues and increased profits. Capitalize on the ROI of employing people with disabilities.

Increased Revenues
Access new markets.
Improve productivity through innovative and effective ways of doing business.

Reduced Costs
Reduce hiring and training costs.
Increase retention.
Reduce costs associated with conflict and litigation.

Improved Shareholder Value
Capitalize on opportunities to meet business goals.

Marketing

Customers with disabilities and their families, friends and associates represent a trillion dollar market segment. They, like other market segments, purchase products and services from companies that best meet their needs. A large number of Americans also say they prefer to patronize businesses that hire people with disabilities. Another of the benefits of employing people with disabilities is increasing your opportunity to gain a lasting customer base.

New Marketing Opportunities
Mirror the market to attract a wider customer base.
Increase your market share.

Opportunity to Develop New Products & Services
Respond to marketplace needs.
Lead your market.
Increase profitability.

Innovation

Innovation is key to your business’ success. Employees with disabilities bring unique experiences and understanding that transform a workplace and enhance products and services. As part of your team, employees with disabilities help build your business and can lead your company into the future.

Improved Workplace Innovation
Create more efficient and effective business processes.
Develop and implement management strategies to attract and retain qualified talent.
Use technology in new ways to increase productivity.

Product/Service Innovation
Stimulate new product and service development through disability-inclusive diverse teams.
Customize products and services to increase profitability.

(Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy)