We are excited to kick off the 14th Microsoft Ability Summit, an annual event that brings together thought leaders to discuss how to accelerate accessibility and bridge the Disability Divide. This year’s summit focuses on three key themes: Build, Imagine, and Include. The ‘Build’ theme explores building accessibly and inclusively by leveraging the insights of disabled talent. ‘Imagine’ delves into best practices for creating accessible buildings, events, content, and products. The ‘Include’ theme highlights the issues and opportunities AI presents for creators, developers, and engineers.

Attendees have the opportunity to gain insights from individuals such as Katy Jo Wright and Dave McCarthy, who discuss Katy Jo’s journey living with Chronic Lyme Disease. Deaf creator and performer Leila Hanaumi, international accessibility leaders Sara Minkara and Stephanie Cadieux, as well as singer, actor, and mental health advocate Michelle Williams will also share their experiences and expertise.

Advancing accessible technology is crucial to empowering the 1.3 billion-plus people with disabilities globally. With the new chapter of AI, the possibilities are growing, along with the responsibility to get it right. The event will showcase the latest technology and tools from Microsoft aimed at achieving this goal, including Copilot for Windows, which makes accessibility easier, and M365 empowering creators to build accessible content.