Enabling Devices
Enabling Devices is a privately-held assistive technology company that designs and sells adaptive switches, AAC communicators, switch-adapted toys, sensory products, and mounting systems for individuals with disabilities, serving special education schools, therapists, healthcare providers, and individual families since 1978.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded1978
- HeadquartersHawthorne, United States
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What Enabling Devices does
Enabling Devices is a privately-held assistive technology company founded in 1978 by Dr. Steve Kanor and headquartered at 50 Broadway in Hawthorne, New York. The company designs, manufactures, and sells adaptive devices for individuals with disabilities, including capability switches (sip/puff, wobble, eye-blink, and wireless movement-activated variants), augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices such as the 7-Level Communication Builder, switch-adapted toys and consumer electronics, sensory products, mounting systems, and specialized kits for visually impaired users. Itself-claims a 45+ year operating history and credits itself as the first company to create adapted products for people with special needs; its catalog spans hundreds of SKUs priced from roughly $10 to $3,150 across individual products and $185 to $2,726 across pre-configured classroom kits.
The business model is hardware sales through a direct-to-consumer e-commerce storefront at enablingdevices.com, supplemented by phone-based sales support, an institutional quotes workflow that lets schools and teachers generate itemized quotes for administrative approval, and acceptance of purchase orders. The company ships internationally and operates a dealer and reseller information program indicating third-party distribution. Recurring revenue is limited to a digital and physical catalog subscription, while one-off revenue dominates through product sales, custom device creation services, classroom kit bundles, and special offers. Distribution and marketing assets include five active social platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn), an email newsletter, blog content on disability-related topics, and dedicated testimonial pages featuring assistive technology specialists, therapists, and parents.
The customer base is diverse and heavily long-tail: special education schools and teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, healthcare providers, and individual families purchasing for children or adults with motor, sensory, communication, or visual disabilities. Founder Dr. Steve Kanor's successor Seth Kanor serves as CEO; the company has no disclosed parent, no subsidiaries, no external funding, and no announced M&A activity. Operating with an 11-50 employee headcount, Enabling Devices is a stable, family-led specialty retailer rather than a venture-backed growth company.
Enabling Devices firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Enabling Devices
- Legal name
- Enabling Devices
- Website
- https://enablingdevices.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 1978
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Short description
- Enabling Devices is a privately-held assistive technology company that designs and sells adaptive switches, AAC communicators, switch-adapted toys, sensory products, and mounting systems for individuals with disabilities, serving special education schools, therapists, healthcare providers, and individual families since 1978.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Enabling Devices industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Assistive Technology Devices
- NAICS
- Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing (33451), Services for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities (624120), Electronics and Appliance Retailers (44921)
- SIC
- Computer Peripheral Equipment, Nec (3577), Electromedical & Electrotherapeutic Apparatus (3845), Orthopedic, Prosthetic & Surgical Appliances & Supplies (3842)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Computer Access & Alternative Input (Switch, Eye Gaze, Head/Mouse, Keyboards) (EDAKAIAD)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Accessibility & Special Needs Equipment (Assistive Devices, Adaptive Furniture, Sensory Rooms) (EDAEAIAM), Assistive & Accessibility Input Devices (Switches, Adaptive Controllers, Braille Keyboards) (HDACAFAL), Disability Services & Assistive Solutions (Accessibility, Assistive Tech) (BPAGALAM), Assistive Technology (AT) & Accessible Learning Tools (EDALAGAB), AT Device Setup, Integration & Technical Support (MDM, IT, Interoperability) (EDAKAIAK)
Keywords
Where Enabling Devices is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Hawthorne
- HQ country
- United States
- HQ region
- North America
Offices1 record
Markets served
Enabling Devices business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales
Revenue model
- Product Sales: Direct sales of adaptive devices and assistive technology products to consumers, schools, therapists, and healthcare providers. Products include switches, AAC devices, sensory products, adapted toys, and mounting systems. Sales occur through e-commerce website, phone orders, and purchase orders.
- Custom Product Orders: The company offers custom device creation services, as mentioned in their contact information. Customers can request assistance creating custom devices for specific needs.
- Bundle and Kit Sales: Pre-configured classroom kits and bundles for special education settings, including ASD kits, communication kits, sensory kits, and switch kits sold as comprehensive solutions.
- Catalog Subscription: Physical and digital catalog distribution with subscription cancellation options available, indicating recurring catalog sales revenue.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Individual Product Pricing |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Classroom Kits |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Volume and Special Offers |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels5 records
Marketing channels6 records
Enabling Devices product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Enabling Devices designs, manufactures, and sells adaptive and assistive technology products for people with disabilities, including capability switches, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices, switch-adapted toys and electronics, sensory products, and mounting systems. The company serves schools, special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, healthcare providers, and families of individuals with disabilities through e-commerce, phone sales, and institutional purchase orders.
Product overview
Enabling Devices is an assistive technology company that has operated since 1978, specializing in products for people with disabilities. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of adapted devices organized into distinct product categories: Classroom Kits (including AAC Lite Tech Evaluation Kit, Adapted Music Kit, Adapted Play Kit, Autism Spectrum Disorder Kit, Classroom Communication Kit, Computer Access Kit), Communicators—AAC Devices (including 7-Level Communication Builder, Talkables, Big Talk, Put-Em-Arounds, 32 Message Communicator), Adapted Electronics (including Adapted Bluetooth Speaker, CD Boom Box, TV Remote Module, Wireless TV Remote), iPad Accessories (including mounting systems, wireless switches, styluses), Mounting Systems (including EZ Mount trays, Magic Arm, Gooseneck Mounting), Sensory Products (including weighted products like Hugimals, sensory rockers, bubble walls, fiber optics), Adapted Switches (including Ultimate Switch, Bright Red Switch, Eye Blink Switch), Switch-Adapted Toys and Games (including Activity Gym, musical instruments, plush toys, games), Training/Occupational Therapy Products (including ADL Boards, Adapted Garden Spray, Pouring Cups), and Visually Impaired products (including specialized communicators, switches, and light boxes). The company's flagship products include the 7-Level Communication Builder (a progressive AAC device), the Ultimate Switch (ball end wobble switch), and the EZ Mount mounting system. Products are designed to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence through assistive technology that enables communication, play, learning, and daily living activities.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Products and services
- 7-Level Communication Builder The company's best-selling progressive communication builder designed for non-speaking individuals. Starts with one message and advances to sixteen messages across seven levels, growing with the user.
- Ultimate Switch (Ball End Wobble Switch) Number one best-selling capability switch designed for individuals with profound physical or neurological challenges. Super versatile, multifunctional, and durable with sensitivity to slight touch.
- EZ Mounts Mounting System Simple and affordable mounting solution for the company's most popular devices. Designed to mount on wheelchairs and tables for easy accessibility.
- Talking Keyboards Keyboard and speaker combination for non-speaking adults and kids who can operate a standard keyboard. Generates speech by typing without additional cost barriers.
- iPad Wireless Switches Wireless switches that enable individuals with movement-limiting disabilities to access iPads. Designed for users with conditions like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.
- Big Talk Communicator Easy-to-use one-message communicator available in 5 colors. Users can crack jokes, sing songs, or greet friends. Improved design.
- Put-Em-Arounds Wall Communicators Unique wall communicators allowing users to participate in conversations wherever they are. Available in sets of 5 or 10.
- Hugimals Weighted Koala or Elephant Cuddly weighted plush animals weighing 4.5 lbs, with weight evenly distributed throughout body, head, arms, and legs. Designed for calming and sensory engagement for older children, teens, and adults.
- Mini Carillon A precision-tuned bell musical toy that comes with six color-coded song cards enabling users to play songs like 'Twinkle, Twinkle' and 'Mary Had a Little Lamb'. Activated via capability switch.
- Busy Gears
- Eye Blink Switch Sensor-controlled switch allowing control of communicators, switch-enabled computers, or toys with the blink of an eye.
- Totally Tactile Communicator Communicator with six colorful textured buttons and 6 levels for 36 messages. 8 minutes, 13 seconds total record time per message. Designed for visually impaired users.
- Wireless TV Remote Control Oversized remote with 2-inch striking area for users with impaired motor coordination. Switch-activated remote module for easy TV viewing.
- 32 Message Communicator Lightweight, durable, portable AAC device with six levels and room for 192 messages of up to 3 seconds each. For more advanced communicators.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Kit 11-product kit with tools for sensory awareness, communication skills development, and vibro-tactile feedback for students on the autism spectrum.
- Classroom Communication Kit Carefully curated kit of communication devices assembled in consultation with special educators, speech therapists, and assistive technologists. Price range $185-$2,726.
- Computer Access Kit Essential kit ensuring students with severe disabilities can access technology and participate in classroom learning and activities.
- ATL Bundle Bundle of five popular adapted toys and five bestselling switches teaching cause and effect, increasing visual and auditory attention. Price $629.95.
- Aura LED Projector Calming LED projector with Wi-Fi connectivity, free app for iOS and Android, dimmer function, and timer capabilities.
- iPad Mounting System Mounting system with platform, light duty arm (14.5 to 24 inches), and clamp for wheelchair or table mounting. SKU #1556.
- Magic Arm Mounting System Unique mounting system enabling users to place switches in virtually any position. Available in multiple configurations.
Quantifiable outcome
- Products enable independence in daily living activities for individuals with disabilities
- +1 more outcomes
Companies that use Enabling Devices
Customer profileNamed customers5 records
Segments5 records
Ideal customer profiles5 records
Enabling Devices technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed No
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature4 records
Enabling Devices partnerships and signals
Strategic signalScale indicators4 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights5 records
Enabling Devices competitors and assessment
Company assessmentEmerging players
- AssistiveWare: AssistiveWare makes Proloquo2Go and other iPad-based AAC apps that increasingly substitute for dedicated hardware communicators, positioning the company as a software-led emerging alternative to Enabling Devices' AAC hardware line.
Broad incumbents
- School Specialty: School Specialty is a large, established K-12 supplies distributor with catalogs serving special education, classroom, and therapy markets, acting as a broad incumbent channel that competes and overlaps with Enabling Devices in school procurement of adaptive equipment.
- Apple (Accessibility): Apple's built-in iOS/macOS accessibility features (Switch Control, AssistiveTouch, VoiceOver) increasingly enable users with disabilities without third-party hardware, functioning as a broad platform incumbent that constrains standalone switch and AAC device growth.
Direct peers
- Attainment Company: Attainment Company is a special education-focused publisher and product company offering AAC, literacy, and transition tools to schools, positioning it as a peer in the special-education classroom kit and AAC go-to-market motion.
- AbleNet: AbleNet is one of the closest direct competitors: a long-established assistive technology manufacturer specializing in capability switches, AAC devices, and switch-adapted learning tools for special education, overlapping heavily with Enabling Devices' core switch and AAC categories.
- Adaptivation: Adaptivation designs and manufactures capability switches, communication aids, and adapted toys for individuals with disabilities, making it a small but directly comparable niche peer in the switches and AAC market.
- PRC-Saltillo: PRC-Saltillo (Prentke Romich Company) is a major AAC device manufacturer serving speech-language pathologists and school programs with dedicated speech-generating devices that compete with Enabling Devices' 7-Level Communication Builder, Talkables, and Big Talk product lines.
- Inclusive TLC: Inclusive TLC supplies hands-on tools and resources for special education classrooms, including sensory, fidgets, and learning aids, overlapping with Enabling Devices' classroom kits and sensory categories.
- Tobii Dynavox: Tobii Dynavox is a leading global vendor of AAC speech-generating devices and eye-gaze controlled access hardware, directly competing with Enabling Devices in AAC communicators and computer/alternative input access for users with motor and speech impairments.
- RJ Cooper and Associates: RJ Cooper produces customized assistive technology solutions, including switch interfaces and adapted computer/iPad access products, directly overlapping with Enabling Devices' computer access and iPad accessories offerings.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat4 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights6 records
Customer concentration
Enabling Devices social profiles
Digital presenceEnabling Devices financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Enabling Devices leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles1 record
Enabling Devices funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Enabling Devices M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Enabling Devices
What does Enabling Devices do?
Enabling Devices designs, manufactures, and sells adaptive and assistive technology products for people with disabilities, including capability switches, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices, switch-adapted toys and electronics, sensory products, and mounting systems. The company serves schools, special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, healthcare providers, and families of individuals with disabilities through e-commerce, phone sales, and institutional purchase orders.
Is Enabling Devices a public or private company?
Enabling Devices is a private company. It is classified as family owned and is currently operating.
When was Enabling Devices founded?
Enabling Devices was founded in 1978. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is Enabling Devices based?
Enabling Devices is headquartered in Hawthorne, United States, in the North America region.
How does Enabling Devices make money?
Four revenue lines are on record. Product Sales are the primary driver. The others are custom Product Orders, bundle and Kit Sales and catalog Subscription.
Who are Enabling Devices's main competitors?
AssistiveWare is listed as an emerging player. Broad incumbents are School Specialty and Apple (Accessibility). Direct peers are Attainment Company, AbleNet, Adaptivation, PRC-Saltillo, Inclusive TLC, Tobii Dynavox and RJ Cooper and Associates.
Does Enabling Devices have an API?
No public API is recorded for Enabling Devices.
What industry is Enabling Devices in?
Enabling Devices's product category is Assistive Technology Devices. Its primary akta.pro industry code is EDAKAIAD, Computer Access & Alternative Input (Switch, Eye Gaze, Head/Mouse, Keyboards), with a secondary code of EDAEAIAM, Accessibility & Special Needs Equipment (Assistive Devices, Adaptive Furniture, Sensory Rooms). Its NAICS code is 33451 and its SIC code is 3577.