Impact VR ITG

Grant Award Summary: IMPACT VR ITG

The University of Massachusetts Boston received a $711,104 Project Grant award on October 1, 2025, from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) under the Innovative Rehabilitation Training (IRT) program (CFDA 84.263). The award supports the development and demonstration of innovative training programs for vocational rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals. Through this 12-month project period (concluding September 30, 2026), the institution will develop new training methodologies and curriculum designed to enhance the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, with particular emphasis on preparing rehabilitation personnel to address 21st century labor market dynamics and evolving workforce needs.

The IMPACT VR ITG initiative aligns with the IRT program's core objectives to create evidence-based training innovations that strengthen the capacity of state rehabilitation agencies and nonprofit service organizations to serve individuals with disabilities. As a minority-serving research institution headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, UMass Boston brings established expertise in rehabilitation services training and workforce development to this effort. The project represents one of twelve grants awarded in the October 2025 funding cycle, reflecting heightened federal investment in vocational rehabilitation training innovation.