Frequently Asked Questions

How many grants are there?

We will be awarding up to three $10,000 travel grants in 2026.

Who is eligible for a Blind Travel Foundation grant?

Anyone can apply!

At least one member of your team must be legally blind and at least 18 years old by the time of your proposed travel dates. Additionally, at least one team member must be a fluent English communicator (spoken, sign language, or otherwise).

What defines legally blind?

Legal blindness is defined as having a visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better or stronger eye with best correction, or a restricted field of vision of 20 degrees or less in the better or stronger eye. You will be required to submit medical documentation proving you are legally blind. Do you have a condition that is not recognized as legally blind but you believe it should be? Let’s hear it!

What is the deadline for the application?

February 1st, 2026 11:59 PM

What is the timeline for the trip and project?

Trips can start as soon as April 15th, 2026. Projects must be completed by December 1st, 2026

Can I submit more than one idea?

Yes, go for it! Let’s hear them! Submit a separate application for each idea.

What does a winning application look like?

A winning application will state a clear idea with a clear objective. You have demonstrated positive potential impact to the blind and visually impaired community. You have a proven track record the shows you can execute it. For example, if you are creating video, we recommend you share an example of video content you or someone on your team has created. You will be able to post links.

Where am I required to post any content I make?

Content created using the grant will be posted exclusively on Blind Travel Foundation’s social media platforms, website, and other areas.

I have a strong following and brand. Can I create content for my followers on the trip?

All content created related to your trip and project will be exclusive and owned by Blind Travel Foundation. Instagram Collaboration is a great tool to use if you want content to show up on your personal and/or brand’s timeline. For example all Instagram content would be posted on Blind Travel Foundation’s profile. It can then be shared via a “Collab” to your personal profile or brand. You could do an Instagram takeover of Blind Travel Foundation’s channel as part of your project.

How do I receive the $10,000 grant?

The $10,000 is money we hold and use to pay for your trip costs. Transportation, lodging, food, training, equipment, etc. The entire cost will be spent on elements of your trip. How the money is spent will be a collaborative effort with Blind Travel Foundation staff. If selected for the semifinal round you will be required to send us a spreadsheet of proposed costs. We will work hard to help you find ways to save money, and travel as much as possible to successfully complete your project!

Will I get to keep items purchased for the trip?

Yes, so long as they are part of the $10,000 budget.

What else do we get with the $10,000 budget?

We will be announcing partnership soon that will benefit our grant winners! Grant winners in 2025 received $3000 in store credit at FEELDOM. They are an adaptive backpack and accessories company. Winners also shared from a pool of 1000 minutes from Aira. They are a professional visual interpretation company.

Also, we will help take care of all logistics and reservations, and help connect you with people along the way. We will help with any problems that arise. We want you to focus on completing your project and traveling adventures, not annoying travel logistics. We want you to feel like a rock star when you travel!

If I need a travel assistant, video person, or a guide dog to go with me, does that count toward the $10,000 budget?

Yes. Explain how you will use them to your advantage. Human helpers could film you, take pictures, help with social media, etc. If you have a guide dog, they could be great content to teach people about the value they bring to you and others. If you are bringing someone who is filming, please tell us about their experience creating content too. It helps us to see content they have created. You have the option of adding links. Who will edit videos? You can hire people to edit videos using your grant.

I have a great idea, but I need an assistant that I do not currently have. Should I submit an application?

Absolutely! In the meantime, try to find someone to go with you! Post you are looking for someone online. Tag us so we can share it!

What is not covered by Blind Travel Foundation?

We do not pay for things such as: passports, visas, personal health insurance, other medical equipment, health related costs.

Can I raise more money for my trip?

Yes, but it is absolutely not required.

What other expectations are there for the winners?

We expect that you will be willing to participate in media such as podcasts, questions from reporters, and other opportunities that may present itself. We are a young organization and grant winners are the face of the Blind Travel Foundation. They are helping us prove the concept of funding impactful trips that benefit the blind and visually impaired community. We expect our winners to take pride in helping us grow!

What happens after submitting an application?

You will either advance to the semifinal round or not. This round will involve an interview, creating a budget and more questions.

I still have a question or suggestion.

Please reach out to us! We want to help you as much as possible. No question or concern is too small or big to bring to our attention! Email our Executive Director Mike Walsh at Mike@BlindTravel.org.