In a groundbreaking move to combat systemic barriers faced by individuals with disabilities, the startup Making Space has raised $2 million in its pre-seed round, led by Beta Boom, a prominent venture capital firm. This initiative, spearheaded by CEO and co-founder Keely Cat-Wells, aims to transform the hiring process for disabled employees while also addressing barriers they encounter in their professional lives.
The Rise of Abilityism in Hiring
The concept of "abilityism" has gained traction globally, with many individuals experiencing discrimination based on physical or mental disabilities. Despite advancements in technology and societal progress, millions of people continue to face systemic challenges that limit their ability to thrive in both personal and professional spheres. Keely Cat-Wells, who identified as disabled at a young age after an incident involving discrimination at work, co-founded Making Space with the mission to challenge these inequalities. "It wasn’t until I experienced discrimination that I truly understood the depth of this issue," she explained.
How Disability Affects Access to Employment
For many individuals with disabilities, entering the workforce is a daunting task. Discrimination in hiring processes, such as subtle cues like seating preferences or unspoken hierarchies among employers, often steer capable candidates away from opportunities. Additionally, invisible barriers—such as stigma, limited access to accommodations, and inadequate support systems—can further hinder their ability to succeed.
The Role of Making Space
Keely Cat-Wells’ vision extends beyond individual empowerment; her platform focuses on three core pillars: hiring disabled individuals, training them for the workforce, and advocating for systemic change to ensure inclusive employment opportunities. By fostering a culture of acceptance and support, Making Space aims to challenge the status quo and create a more equitable society where disability is not a barrier but an asset.
Achievements and Expertise
Keely Cat-Wells brings a wealth of experience to her venture, having served as a senior policy advisor at the White House, consultated for global leaders like Kamala Harris and Prince Harry, and spoken at prestigious events such as the Inaugural AI Ethics Summit. Her extensive background in advocacy, business strategy, and leadership positions her uniquely suited to steer Making Space toward long-term success.
Strategic Partnerships and Growth Plans
The startup has already forged significant partnerships with notable organizations, including a confidentiality agreement with Fortune 500 companies, which will soon be revealed. These collaborations are expected to accelerate growth and scale operations, enabling the platform to reach more individuals and amplify its impact.
Educational Expansion
In addition to its focus on employment, Making Space plans to expand its services into K-12 education. The company aims to initiate discussions about disability rights within schools, equipping educators with tools and resources to create inclusive learning environments. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of addressing the "2x more likely" statistic that currently highlights the disparity in employment rates among disabled individuals.
Looking Ahead
With its strategic focus on education, advocacy, and innovation, Making Space is poised to make a lasting impact. The company’s mission to transform hiring practices for people with disabilities represents not just an opportunity for growth but also a commitment to societal progress. By combining business acumen with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by disabled individuals, Keely Cat-Wells and her team are setting a new standard for inclusive employment.
As Making Space continues to expand its reach and influence, it remains dedicated to proving that disability should not be a barrier to opportunity—ultimately, an asset worth celebrating.
