Unique Abilities Partner Program Toolkit for Employers

The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) strongly supports businesses in their efforts to create inclusive workplaces. Through the APD Unique Abilities Partner Program, APD encourages employers to embrace workforce diversity by hiring individuals with disabilities. APD believes that businesses investing in inclusive hiring benefit from improved workplace innovation, stronger community engagement, financial incentives, and enhanced productivity. By partnering with APD, businesses can access essential resources, training opportunities, and guidance to successfully integrate and support employees with disabilities.

Introduction:
The Florida Unique Abilities Partner Program provides resources, hiring best practices, and access to tax incentives to help employers successfully integrate and retain a diverse workforce. By becoming a Unique Abilities Partner, businesses can strengthen their teams, foster innovation, and contribute to a more inclusive economy. Employers are encouraged to leverage APD’s Employment Initiatives, Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR), and CareerSource Florida partnerships to build an inclusive and sustainable workforce.

Businesses that engage in hiring individuals with disabilities benefit from:

1. Improved Workplace Diversity & Innovation – A workforce that reflects a broad range of abilities fosters creative problem-solving and adaptability.
2. Stronger Community Engagement – Employers who prioritize inclusion strengthen community ties and enhance their company’s public image.
3. Access to Financial Incentives – Tax credits and workforce development programs provide tangible financial benefits for businesses.
4. Workplace Productivity & Morale – Studies show that inclusive workplaces see improved employee retention and overall job satisfaction.

Program Benefits:

• Recognition as an inclusive employer. Unique Abilities Partner Program | APD - Agency for Persons with Disabilities - State of Florida
• Access to tax incentives and financial benefits. Florida Dept. of Revenue - Corporate Tax Incentives
• Guidance on hiring and retaining employees with disabilities. Hiring People with Disabilities | U.S. Department of Labor
• Increased workplace diversity and innovation.

How to get started:

1. Assess Business Needs: Identify roles that align with hiring individuals with disabilities.
2. Recruitment & Hiring: Utilize inclusive hiring practices and connect with employment resources such as CareerSource, Employ FL, Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, FL Association of People Supporting Employment First, Able Trust. Vocational Rehabilitation, HOPE Fl and many more.
3. Onboarding & Training: Provide workplace accommodation and diverse training.
4. Retention & Growth: Foster an inclusive culture and offer career development opportunities.

Employer Resources:

• APD Employment Initiatives – Programs that support businesses in hiring individuals with disabilities. Employment Initiatives| Customers
• Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) – Offers hiring incentives and workplace accommodations. Vocational Rehabilitation | Florida Department of Education
• CareerSource Florida – Connects businesses with qualified job candidates. CareerSource Florida
• The Able Trust – Provides training and resources to enhance workplace inclusion. Home - The Able Trust
• Hope Fl - Connect the state's business community with Hope Navigators to help guide Floridians on a pathway to prosperity. FL- Hope Florida - Employer Registration

Best Practices for Workplace Inclusion:

1. Implement inclusive hiring policies.
2. Provide necessary accommodation and assistive technology.
3. Offer mentorship and professional development opportunities.

Employer Toolkit:

• Hiring & Recruitment Strategies: Best practices for inclusive hiring.
• Tax Incentives & Financial Benefits: Guidance on available credits for employers.
• Workplace Accessibility & Accommodations: Tools to create a supportive environment.

Contact Information:
For employer assistance, email unique.abilities@apdcares.org or visit APD - Agency for Persons with Disabilities - State of Florida