Innovation, as a term, is vague. It can conjure up a variety of thoughts. One of those would probably not have been that innovation means inclusivity. 2Gether-International (2GI) emerges as a revolutionary force, challenging conventional narratives in the entrepreneurial space. Founded by Diego Mariscal, a proud advocate for the Disabled Community, 2GI is more than a startup accelerator — it’s a crusade to redefine disability as a source of strength and innovation in business.
“2Gether-International is redefining how people think about disability,” Diego declares. “We often talk about diversity and inclusion, yet disability is often left out of that conversation, and the irony is the disability community is the largest minority in the world with 1 billion people, and that anyone can become disabled at any point in time.” Alarmingly, the unemployment rate among disabled people is as high as 80% in some countries. And that’s why 2GI exists.
The Catalyst of Change
A disabled person born with cerebral palsy, Diego’s entrepreneurial journey began in Monterrey, Mexico, where he founded a disability education program for his fellow local students. This initiative, known as Limitless Prepa Tec, spread across Mexico, reaching more than 3,000 students – and it continues to be the largest youth-led disability education program in that country. He moved to the U.S. in 2011 to study international relations at American University in Washington, D.C. In 2012, he established 2GI after his experiences propelled him to envision a platform where disability is not a barrier but a unique advantage in life. 2GI is now a 501c3 nonprofit and the leading startup accelerator run by and for entrepreneurs with disabilities.
Diego’s global advocacy includes collaborations with multinational organizations such as the U.S. Department of State, the Organization of American States, the Inter-American Development Bank, and companies like Comcast NBCUniversal, Google, Blackboard, and McKinsey, reflecting his dedication to empowering disabled entrepreneurs. He has also met with President Clinton and President Biden to discuss disability and entrepreneurship challenges. This past March, he was a panelist at the Clinton Global Initiative at Vanderbilt University moderated by Hillary Clinton.
When asked about the vision of 2GI, he shares: “Being proud of one’s disabilities and celebrating them.” 2GI’s mission is to spotlight the innovation and resilience inherent in the disabled community.
Disability as a Synonym for Innovation
2GI stands at the forefront of a movement that views disability as an essential and advantageous element in the entrepreneurial world. The organization connects disabled founders with critical resources, nurturing high-growth, high-impact startups, particularly technology startups. This approach not only provides practical support but also challenges societal perceptions, flipping the narrative around disability.
Innovations like keyboards, electric toothbrushes, voice-recognition apps, sensor-based doors, smartphone touchscreens, audiobooks, and more originated from the needs of the disabled community. “Disability is synonymous with innovation,” Diego notes, underscoring how serving the disabled community leads to more innovative and inclusive products. “The more we can think about serving the disability community, the more innovative and inclusive our products can be.”
Building an Inclusive Entrepreneurial Community
Since 2019, 2GI’s Founder Cohorts have equipped entrepreneurs with tools and guidance, strengthening their pitches and connecting them with a network of funders. This program builds a community among disabled entrepreneurs, fostering peer support and shared growth. Since the launch of 2GI’s first Cohort four years ago, more than 70 startups have participated, and these businesses have collectively raised approximately $54 million dollars in funding from investment, revenue and acquisitions from outside investors.
Diego and his team also actively collaborate with various partners and sponsors, creating lasting change and expanding services to connect with more entrepreneurs globally. These partnerships are crucial in maintaining and growing 2GI’s programs and influence. For instance, 2GI’s most recent Cohort for Disabled Entrepeneurs, which ran from October – December 2023, was made possible by Comcast NBCUniversal. At the conclusion of the 10-week program, the entrepreneurs had an opportunity to pitch their startups to earn $10,000 in seed funding.
As an incubator and accelerator, 2GI is dedicated to creating an entrepreneurial community where disabled founders receive peer support, expert mentorship, and access to a broad network of opportunities. By bringing together industry veterans and emerging leaders, 2GI fosters an ecosystem that accommodates and celebrates the strengths of people with disabilities.
The Ongoing Revolution
The organization’s influence extends beyond the startup world. As a leader in the accelerator space for founders with disabilities, 2GI has become a go-to source for innovation and best practices. Diego’s roles on various boards, including the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Small Business Capital Formation Committee, DC Innovation Inclusion Council, and the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), underscore 2GI’s commitment to fostering an inclusive innovation ecosystem in Washington, D.C., and beyond.
2Gether International is more than an accelerator; it’s a testament to the transformative power of inclusive innovation. Diego’s personal and professional triumph inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs. In a world where disability is often seen as a limitation, 2GI stands as a bold statement that disability can indeed be a powerful driver of creativity, resilience, and business success.
“Disability is synonymous with innovation.” Diego Mariscal – Founder
