Title: Navigating budget restrictions: a comprehensive guide to maximizing departmental resources | Genio

URL Source: https://genio.co/blog/navigating-budget-restrictions

Published Time: 2025-02-13T00:00:00.000Z

Markdown Content:
# Navigating budget restrictions: a comprehensive guide to maximizing departmental resources | Genio

[Skip to main menu](https://genio.co/blog/navigating-budget-restrictions#main-menu)[Skip to footer](https://genio.co/blog/navigating-budget-restrictions#footer)

*   [Sign in](https://app.genio.co/account/sign-in)
*   [Get started for free](https://genio.co/pricing/get-genio-free)
*   [Activate a licence](https://app.genio.co/notes/activate)Activate a licence

[](https://genio.co/)Genio logo - home

*   Products
*   Pricing
*   Resources
*   About Genio

[Watch a demo](https://genio.co/watch-demo)

[Genio Notes](https://genio.co/notes)Genio Notes

![Image 1: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg)

Genio Notes
The #1 note taking solution to boost knowledge, skills and confidence

[The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass](https://genio.co/the-confident-notetakers-masterclass)The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass

![Image 2: The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_studying%20mh%20challenge.svg)

The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass
An on-demand online note taking course that helps you prepare for your studies

[Genio Present](https://genio.co/present)Genio Present

![Image 3: Genio Present icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/present%20icon.png)

Genio Present
Our brand new tool to reduce presentation anxiety and build lasting communication skills

Enter search term Search

[Genio for institutions](https://genio.co/solutions/institutions)Genio for institutions

![Image 4: Implement Genio in your institution icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_higher%20ed.svg)

Genio for institutions
Learn why over 1,000 institutions around the world choose Genio

[Genio for students](https://genio.co/solutions/students)Genio for students

![Image 5: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg)

Genio for students
Over 160,000 students are using Genio tools to unlock better learning

[Recommend Genio](https://genio.co/resources/assessors-toolkit)Recommend Genio

![Image 6: Recommend Genio in needs assessments icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/recommend-glean-icon.svg)

Recommend Genio
Confidently demonstrate and recommend Genio's solutions

[Why choose Genio](https://genio.co/solutions/why-choose-genio)Why choose Genio

![Image 7: Genio website favicon 300x300-1](https://genio.co/hubfs/Genio%20website%20favicon%20300x300-1.svg)

Why choose Genio
Explore all the reasons Genio is the #1 note taking solution to boost knowledge, skills and confidence

[Packages for institutions](https://genio.co/pricing/institutions)Packages for institutions

![Image 8: roi-calculator-icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/roi-calculator-icon.svg)

Packages for institutions
Explore our packages and provide Genio Notes for students

[Individual plans for students](https://genio.co/pricing/individuals)Individual plans for students 

![Image 9: Individual plans for students icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/icon_individual%20pricing.png)

Individual plans for students 
Purchase a Genio Notes subscription for your studies or on behalf of someone else

[Get Genio Notes free](https://genio.co/pricing/get-genio-free)Get Genio Notes free

![Image 10: icon_get genio free](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/icon_get%20genio%20free.png)

Get Genio Notes free
Find out if you can get Genio Notes through government programs or your institution

Enter search term Search

[Institution Wide](https://genio.co/pricing/institution-wide)Institution Wide

![Image 11: Institution Wide icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/faculty-support-icon.svg)

Institution Wide
Drive student engagement and retention at your institution

[ROI calculator](https://genio.co/resources/roi-calculator)ROI calculator

![Image 12: ROI calculator icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_balancing%20work.svg)

ROI calculator
See how much you could save by improving retention and persistence with Genio Notes

[Request a demo account](https://genio.co/solutions/recommend-genio/demonstrator-account)Request a demo account

![Image 13: Request a demo account icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/tool-for-admins-icon.svg)

Request a demo account

[Activate a Genio Notes licence](https://app.genio.co/notes/activate)Activate a Genio Notes licence

![Image 14: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg)

Activate a Genio Notes licence

###### Explore

[Product and feature guides](https://genio.co/resources/product-and-feature-guides)Product and feature guides

![Image 15: Product and feature guides icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/video_guides-icon-01.svg)

Product and feature guides

[Learner support and retention](https://genio.co/resources/learner-support-and-retention)Learner support and retention

![Image 16: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg)

Learner support and retention

[Recommend Genio in needs assessments](https://genio.co/resources/assessors-toolkit)Recommend Genio in needs assessments

![Image 17: Recommend Genio in needs assessments icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/recommend-glean-icon.svg)

Recommend Genio in needs assessments

[Tips and advice for students](https://genio.co/resources/tips-and-advice-for-students)Tips and advice for students

![Image 18: Tips and advice for students icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_learning%20accessible.svg)

Tips and advice for students

[Implement Genio in your institution](https://genio.co/resources/implement-genio)Implement Genio in your institution

![Image 19: Implement Genio in your institution icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_higher%20ed.svg)

Implement Genio in your institution

[Accessibility and compliance](https://genio.co/resources/compliance-and-accessibility)Accessibility and compliance 

![Image 20: Accessibility and compliance icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/it-icon.svg)

Accessibility and compliance 

[Genio AI Hub](https://genio.co/ai-hub)Genio AI Hub

![Image 21: Genio AI Hub](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/about-us-icon.svg)

Genio AI Hub

[Support for STEM students](https://genio.co/notes/stem-study-support-tools)Support for STEM students

![Image 22: roi-calculator-icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/roi-calculator-icon.svg)

Support for STEM students

Enter search term Search

###### Browse

[Events and webinars](https://genio.co/resources/events-and-webinars)Events and webinars

![Image 23: Events and webinars icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/events-icon.svg)

Events and webinars

[Case studies and user stories](https://genio.co/resources/case-studies-and-user-stories)Case studies and user stories

![Image 24: Case studies and user stories icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/case-studies-icon.svg)

Case studies and user stories

[Blog](https://genio.co/blog)Blog

![Image 25: Blog icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/blog-icon.svg)

Blog

[Research and insights](https://genio.co/resources/research-and-insights)Research and insights

![Image 26: Our Brand Story icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/guides-icon.svg)

Research and insights

[Help center](https://help.genio.co/)Help center

![Image 27: Help center icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/customer-support-icon.svg)

Help center

[Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders](https://genio.co/resources/learning-outcomes-leaders-podcast)Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders

![Image 28: Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders](https://genio.co/hubfs/mic.png)

Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders

[About us](https://genio.co/about)About us

![Image 29: About us icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/Genio%20website%20favicon%20300x300.svg)

About us

[Careers](https://genio.co/about/careers)Careers

![Image 30: Careers icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/careers-icon.svg)

Careers

[Research Accreditation Hub](https://genio.co/about/research-accreditation-hub)Research Accreditation Hub

![Image 31: Research Accreditation Hub icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/icon_research%20accreditations.png)

Research Accreditation Hub

[Our Brand Story](https://genio.co/about/our-brand-story)Our Brand Story

![Image 32: Our Brand Story icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/guides-icon.svg)

Our Brand Story

[Life at Genio](https://genio.co/about/careers/life-at-genio)Life at Genio

![Image 33: Life at Genio icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_faculty%20staff.svg)

Life at Genio

[Contact us](https://genio.co/contact)Contact us

![Image 34: Contact us icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/contact-us-icon.svg)

Contact us

Enter search term Search

[Home](https://genio.co/)

*   [Sign in](https://app.genio.co/account/sign-in)
*   [Get started for free](https://genio.co/pricing/get-genio-free)
*   [Activate a licence](https://app.genio.co/notes/activate)
*   [Watch a demo](https://genio.co/watch-demo)

Enter search term Search

*   Products  
    *   [Genio Notes](https://genio.co/notes)Genio Notes![Image 35: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg) Genio Notes
The #1 note taking solution to boost knowledge, skills and confidence   [The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass](https://genio.co/the-confident-notetakers-masterclass)The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass![Image 36: The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_studying%20mh%20challenge.svg) The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass
An on-demand online note taking course that helps you prepare for your studies   [Genio Present](https://genio.co/present)Genio Present![Image 37: Genio Present icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/present%20icon.png) Genio Present
Our brand new tool to reduce presentation anxiety and build lasting communication skills    
    *   [Genio for institutions](https://genio.co/solutions/institutions)Genio for institutions![Image 38: Implement Genio in your institution icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_higher%20ed.svg) Genio for institutions
Learn why over 1,000 institutions around the world choose Genio   [Genio for students](https://genio.co/solutions/students)Genio for students![Image 39: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg) Genio for students
Over 160,000 students are using Genio tools to unlock better learning   [Recommend Genio](https://genio.co/resources/assessors-toolkit)Recommend Genio![Image 40: Recommend Genio in needs assessments icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/recommend-glean-icon.svg) Recommend Genio
Confidently demonstrate and recommend Genio's solutions   [Why choose Genio](https://genio.co/solutions/why-choose-genio)Why choose Genio![Image 41: Genio website favicon 300x300-1](https://genio.co/hubfs/Genio%20website%20favicon%20300x300-1.svg) Why choose Genio
Explore all the reasons Genio is the #1 note taking solution to boost knowledge, skills and confidence    

*   Pricing  
    *   [Packages for institutions](https://genio.co/pricing/institutions)Packages for institutions![Image 42: roi-calculator-icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/roi-calculator-icon.svg) Packages for institutions
Explore our packages and provide Genio Notes for students   [Individual plans for students](https://genio.co/pricing/individuals)Individual plans for students ![Image 43: Individual plans for students icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/icon_individual%20pricing.png) Individual plans for students 
Purchase a Genio Notes subscription for your studies or on behalf of someone else   [Get Genio Notes free](https://genio.co/pricing/get-genio-free)Get Genio Notes free![Image 44: icon_get genio free](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/icon_get%20genio%20free.png) Get Genio Notes free
Find out if you can get Genio Notes through government programs or your institution    
    *   [Institution Wide](https://genio.co/pricing/institution-wide)Institution Wide![Image 45: Institution Wide icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/faculty-support-icon.svg) Institution Wide
Drive student engagement and retention at your institution   [ROI calculator](https://genio.co/resources/roi-calculator)ROI calculator![Image 46: ROI calculator icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_balancing%20work.svg) ROI calculator
See how much you could save by improving retention and persistence with Genio Notes   [Request a demo account](https://genio.co/solutions/recommend-genio/demonstrator-account)Request a demo account![Image 47: Request a demo account icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/tool-for-admins-icon.svg) Request a demo account   [Activate a Genio Notes licence](https://app.genio.co/notes/activate)Activate a Genio Notes licence![Image 48: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg) Activate a Genio Notes licence    

*   Resources  
    *   [Product and feature guides](https://genio.co/resources/product-and-feature-guides)Product and feature guides![Image 49: Product and feature guides icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/video_guides-icon-01.svg) Product and feature guides   [Learner support and retention](https://genio.co/resources/learner-support-and-retention)Learner support and retention![Image 50: Learner support and retention icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/the_glean_study_tool_Icon.svg) Learner support and retention   [Recommend Genio in needs assessments](https://genio.co/resources/assessors-toolkit)Recommend Genio in needs assessments![Image 51: Recommend Genio in needs assessments icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/recommend-glean-icon.svg) Recommend Genio in needs assessments   [Tips and advice for students](https://genio.co/resources/tips-and-advice-for-students)Tips and advice for students![Image 52: Tips and advice for students icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_learning%20accessible.svg) Tips and advice for students   [Implement Genio in your institution](https://genio.co/resources/implement-genio)Implement Genio in your institution![Image 53: Implement Genio in your institution icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_higher%20ed.svg) Implement Genio in your institution   [Accessibility and compliance](https://genio.co/resources/compliance-and-accessibility)Accessibility and compliance ![Image 54: Accessibility and compliance icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/it-icon.svg) Accessibility and compliance    [Genio AI Hub](https://genio.co/ai-hub)Genio AI Hub![Image 55: Genio AI Hub](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/about-us-icon.svg) Genio AI Hub   [Support for STEM students](https://genio.co/notes/stem-study-support-tools)Support for STEM students![Image 56: roi-calculator-icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/roi-calculator-icon.svg) Support for STEM students    
    *   [Events and webinars](https://genio.co/resources/events-and-webinars)Events and webinars![Image 57: Events and webinars icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/events-icon.svg) Events and webinars   [Case studies and user stories](https://genio.co/resources/case-studies-and-user-stories)Case studies and user stories![Image 58: Case studies and user stories icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/case-studies-icon.svg) Case studies and user stories   [Blog](https://genio.co/blog)Blog![Image 59: Blog icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/blog-icon.svg) Blog   [Research and insights](https://genio.co/resources/research-and-insights)Research and insights![Image 60: Our Brand Story icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/guides-icon.svg) Research and insights   [Help center](https://help.genio.co/)Help center![Image 61: Help center icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/customer-support-icon.svg) Help center   [Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders](https://genio.co/resources/learning-outcomes-leaders-podcast)Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders![Image 62: Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders](https://genio.co/hubfs/mic.png) Genio Podcast: Learning Outcomes Leaders    

*   About Genio  
    *   [About us](https://genio.co/about)About us![Image 63: About us icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/Genio%20website%20favicon%20300x300.svg) About us   [Careers](https://genio.co/about/careers)Careers![Image 64: Careers icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/careers-icon.svg) Careers   [Research Accreditation Hub](https://genio.co/about/research-accreditation-hub)Research Accreditation Hub![Image 65: Research Accreditation Hub icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/icon_research%20accreditations.png) Research Accreditation Hub   [Our Brand Story](https://genio.co/about/our-brand-story)Our Brand Story![Image 66: Our Brand Story icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/guides-icon.svg) Our Brand Story   [Life at Genio](https://genio.co/about/careers/life-at-genio)Life at Genio![Image 67: Life at Genio icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/megamenu%20icon_faculty%20staff.svg) Life at Genio   [Contact us](https://genio.co/contact)Contact us![Image 68: Contact us icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/menu-icons/contact-us-icon.svg) Contact us    

*   [Watch a demo](https://genio.co/watch-demo)

1.   [Blogs](https://genio.co/blog)
2.   [Disability Services](https://genio.co/blog/tag/disability-services)

# Navigating budget restrictions: a comprehensive guide to maximizing departmental resources

Higher education professionals face increasing pressure to do more with less and maximize limited resources. In this article, we explore tips, strategies, and success stories for adopting assistive technology and effectively planning budgets.

![Image 69: Clock](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/clock.svg) 4 min read ![Image 70: Calendar](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/calender.svg)Published: 13 Feb 2025

![Image 71: Author](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/author.svg)Phoebe Hoar

![Image 72: Navigating budget restrictions: a comprehensive guide to maximizing departmental resources](https://genio.co/hubfs/BLOG_thinking%20fast%20slow%20THUMB.png)

![Image 73: Book with bookmarks alongside a lightbulb](https://genio.co/hubfs/BLOG_thinking%20fast%20slow%20HERO.png)

With the 2025 budgeting cycle underway, many higher education professionals are looking for new ways to maximise their resources.

Many face [increasing pressure](https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/improvement-postsecondary-education/title-iii-part-a-programs--strengthening-institutions) to do more with less, all while maintaining quality support for students. This, alongside increasing demand and evolving student needs, means that strategic budget planning has never been more critical.

In this article, we'll provide an overview of some top tips and strategies for effective budget management as well as real life success stories of institutions who managed to balance finances wit student needs.

## Support for obtaining budgets for assistive technology

We recognize the significant budgetary pressures you and your department face in striving to provide an optimal learning environment.

As such, a strong case outlining the positive impact and potential return on investment of digital accommodations is crucial for securing necessary funding.

Here are 5 simple steps to get you started on securing a budget proposal:

*   **Establishing aims**: Always keep the main goals in mind as you progress through your request.
*   **Describing the problem**: You need to find a way to clearly describe the problem you’re wanting to solve before you reach out, as well as provide a little context.
*   **Gathering evidence of ROI**: Try to support your case for funds with evidence, where possible.
*   **Demonstrate positive student outcomes**: Highlighting exactly how the accommodation has previously supported students helps to set the scene for how much potential there is.
*   **Contacting stakeholders**: The first step is formally pursuing a budget request is to reach out to the right people.

You can find more details, as well as an email template for contacting stakeholders, [here](https://genio.co/resources/research-and-insights/your-guide-to-securing-budget-for-accommodations).

## Funding assistive technology across campus

Students are twice as likely to access support when it’s [made universally available](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2165143418811288). They're also [70% more likely](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2165143418811288) to graduate compared the average graduation rate of students with disabilities who don't receive the support they need.

Education, designed with the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles in mind, reduces the need for costly individual interventions and accommodations - often when it is already too late. Providing assistive technology across campus, for all students to access, can be far more effective at reaching and enabling a wide range of needs.

But, we get it, funding is limited even when the return on investment is evident. Here’s a [couple of options](https://genio.co/webinars/a-guide-to-funding-assistive-technology-across-campus-genio) that could help you secure funding:

*   Grant funding
*   Sourcing funds from student tech fees
*   Partnering with other departments

We also have an episode of the Genio [vlogcast](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZCr8OFV1lM)in which we discuss exactly how you can do more with less budget which you may find helpful!

## Grant funding options for securing assistive technology budget

One avenue that is often used for purchasing assistive technology like Genio Notes is grant funding. Grants differ by state and have specific requirements, so we highly recommend researching funding in your particular area, but here’s a couple of examples that have been used previously, which you may be able to apply for.

### 1. Strengthening Institutions Program

The aim of this grant is to support higher education institutions in becoming self-sufficient and help to expand their capacity to serve lower-income students. These grants typically range from $400,000 to $550,000 per year.

### 2. VETSTART (CEVSS)

Some institutions may be able to use a separate budget for veterans.

Requirements include:

*   Monitoring the rates of veteran student enrolment, persistence and completion
*   Supportive instructional services for such students, which may include personal, academic and career counselling as an ongoing part of the program

### Student tech fees

You may also want to research the use of student tech fees to raise money for assistive technology. Some institutions implement a fee that students pay per credit hour on their course, which raises money for tech or similar initiatives.

Student governments can be a powerful voice when advocating for better assistive technology.

## How to work with other departments to secure funding

Collaborating with other departments can also be an effective way to promote assistive technology on campus. These departments have their own budgets, and by working together, you may be able to secure funding for a campus-wide assistive technology initiative.

Each institution is unique, but from working with hundreds of colleges, we’ve seen common themes come up. Some departments our customers have collaborated with to fund Genio Notes include:

*   Student Affairs or Student Success
*   Administration: Such as a Dean or Provost
*   IT: An often critical player when working alongside Assistive Technology or looking to share tools across campus
*   Student governments
*   Some institutions may have dedicated roles or departments focused on UDL and instructional design

For further information, take a look at[this blog.](https://genio.co/blog/how-to-fund-assistive-technology-across-campus)

## Can investing in technology be more effective than peer note taking?

For a number institutions, peer note takers are still the predominant system for supporting disabled students, but is this truly the most cost-efficient and effective approach?

[Northwestern University](https://genio.co/blog/northwestern-notetaking) questioned the value of peer notetakers, as 60% of students who requested the accommodation weren't receiving quality notes.

Their peer notetaking system was costly and ineffective, costing $100 per class, prompting a pilot of note taking technology. This tech significantly reduced demand for peer notetakers, especially among freshmen.

_"Using technology, the students control the note-taking process from the beginning"_ - Jim Stachowiak, Director of Assistive Technology and Assistant Director of Accessible NU.

Holy Cross, New Orleans, found themselves in a similar situation, finding peer notes unreliable and preventing students from developing their own note taking skills.

They were spending almost $60,000 annually on peer note takers only to find many not being used, leaving them thinking there must be a better way to help students.

There was! Investing in Genio Notes allowed students who had previously been reliant on peer notes to begin developing their own skills.

Some, who may have never had the chance to take their own notes during K-12, were now able to record their own notes and become more confident in their ability to note take, enabling better access and engagement in classes.

## How colleges secured funding for assistive technology

Finally, we want to share a couple of success stories from colleges who used some of the tips we’ve suggested to fund Genio Notes across their whole campus.

1.   [**Berkshire Community College**](https://genio.co/blog/berkshire-community-college-goes-campus-wide-with-genio): The Coordinator of the Disability Resource Center had a strategic vision to help student success by implementing Genio Notes institution wide, knowing it would be a more cost effective way of implementing a UDL. Through working with the Dean of Student Affairs they were able to secure a sitewide contract with funding through the disability office.
2.   **Wilfrid Laurier University**: This university involved a number of departments and councils in the decision making process, including the Accessible Learning Services and the Assistive Technologies Department to get the approval for a sitewide purchase of Genio Notes.
3.   [**Tacoma Community College**](https://genio.co/blog/access-all-areas-making-learning-accessible-for-all-at-tacoma-community-college): Tacoma Community College used the Student Tech Fee after getting the Student Government on board with UDL. The Disability Services Coordinator was a huge learning champion for all students and enlisted the help of their Director of Disability Services to coordinate this with them.

[Learn more about improving accessibility for students](https://genio.co/pricing/institution-wide)

## Share this blog

 Facebook 

[![Image 74](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/facebook.png)](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgenio.co%2Fblog%2Fnavigating-budget-restrictions%3Futm_campaign%3Dshare-links%26utm_source%3Dfacebook%26utm_medium%3Dsocial)

 LinkedIn 

[![Image 75](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/linkedIn.png)](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgenio.co%2Fblog%2Fnavigating-budget-restrictions%3Futm_campaign%3Dshare-links%26utm_source%3Dlinkedin%26utm_medium%3Dsocial)

 Twitter 

[![Image 76](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/twitter.png)](https://twitter.com/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgenio.co%2Fblog%2Fnavigating-budget-restrictions%3Futm_campaign%3Dshare-links%26utm_source%3Dtwitter%26utm_medium%3Dsocial)

 Email 

[![Image 77](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/email.svg)](mailto:?subject=Navigating+budget+restrictions%3A+a+comprehensive+guide+to+maximizing+departmental+resources&body=https%3A%2F%2Fgenio.co%2Fblog%2Fnavigating-budget-restrictions%3Futm_campaign%3Dshare-links%26utm_source%3Demail%26utm_medium%3Dsocial)

[![Image 78](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/copy_link.svg)](https://genio.co/blog/navigating-budget-restrictions)

![Image 79: Time for a simpler, smarter note taking accommodation?](https://genio.co/hubfs/cta_image.svg)

## **Time for a simpler, smarter note taking accommodation?**

Genio Notes is the online note taking tool that makes compliance simple, reduces cost and admin burden, and improves student outcomes.

[![Image 80: Learn More](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/24880982/edb6c600-e949-4a2c-983d-c7e2ecf6eec5.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/24880982/edb6c600-e949-4a2c-983d-c7e2ecf6eec5)

## More from **Disability Services**

[View All](https://genio.co/blog/tag/disability-services)

[![Image 81: How can colleges align AI learning tools with WCAG compliance?](https://genio.co/hs-fs/hubfs/BLOG_uni%20survival%20tips%20THUMB.png?width=450&name=BLOG_uni%20survival%20tips%20THUMB.png) ![Image 82: Clock](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/clock.svg) 3 min read ### How can colleges align AI learning tools with WCAG compliance? As AI becomes embedded in everyday learning, colleges face growing pressure to balance accessibility, compliance, and student trust. We were joined by Lauren Tenney and Keely Reeves to discuss how institutions can align AI tools with WCAG standards while protecting autonomy, privacy, and student success.](https://genio.co/blog/how-colleges-align-ai-tools-with-wcag-compliance-genio)[![Image 83: ADA Title II compliance: How colleges can meet the WCAG deadline](https://genio.co/hs-fs/hubfs/BLOG_ai%20outline%20THUMB.png?width=450&name=BLOG_ai%20outline%20THUMB.png) ![Image 84: Clock](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/clock.svg) 3 min read ### ADA Title II compliance: How colleges can meet the WCAG deadline Higher education is shifting from reactive remediation to proactive ADA Title II compliance, requiring a strategic triage of digital content. We were joined by Jon Avila, Michael Canale, and Davida Dorosh to discuss how colleges can meet the WCAG 2.1 Level AA mandates.](https://genio.co/blog/ada-title-ii-compliance-how-can-meet-the-april-2026-deadline-colleges)[![Image 85: AI and accessibility: How colleges can balance innovation and WCAG compliance](https://genio.co/hs-fs/hubfs/BLOG_quiz%20me%20enhancements%20THUMB.png?width=450&name=BLOG_quiz%20me%20enhancements%20THUMB.png) ![Image 86: Clock](https://genio.co/hubfs/raw_assets/public/genio-2025/images/clock.svg) 3 min read ### AI and accessibility: How colleges can balance innovation and WCAG compliance Does your institutional AI strategy meet the 2026 digital accessibility mandates? We were joined by Heather Moore and Jaafar Al-Azzawi to discuss how to move beyond the innovation trap to achieve WCAG 2.1 AA compliance.](https://genio.co/blog/ai-accessibility-how-colleges-can-balance-innovation-and-wcag-compliance)

[View All](https://genio.co/blog/tag/disability-services)

[Genio logo - home](https://genio.co/)

*   Products
    *   [Genio Notes](https://genio.co/notes)
    *   [The Confident Notetaker's Masterclass](https://genio.co/the-confident-notetakers-masterclass)
    *   [Genio Present](https://genio.co/present)

*   Pricing and plans
    *   [For institutions](https://genio.co/pricing/institutions)
    *   [Institution Wide package](https://genio.co/pricing/institution-wide)
    *   [Individual user quote](https://cc.genio.co/genio-individual-user-quote-request)
    *   [ROI calculator](https://genio.co/resources/roi-calculator)
    *   [For individuals](https://genio.co/pricing/individuals)
    *   [Get Genio Notes for free](https://genio.co/pricing/get-genio-free)

*   Why choose Genio
    *   [Genio for institutions](https://genio.co/solutions/institutions)
    *   [Genio for students](https://genio.co/solutions/students)
    *   [Recommend Genio](https://genio.co/resources/assessors-toolkit)

*   Resources
    *   [Blog](https://genio.co/blog)
    *   [Events and webinars](https://genio.co/resources/events-and-webinars)
    *   [Case studies and user stories](https://genio.co/resources/case-studies-and-user-stories)
    *   [Product and feature guides](https://genio.co/resources/product-and-feature-guides)
    *   [Research and insights](https://genio.co/resources/research-and-insights)

*   [Sign in](https://app.genio.co/account/sign-in)
*   About us
    *   [About us](https://genio.co/about)
    *   [Careers](https://genio.co/about/careers)
    *   [Our Brand Story](https://genio.co/about/our-brand-story)
    *   [Our history](https://genio.co/about/our-history)
    *   [Research Accreditation Hub](https://genio.co/about/research-accreditation-hub)
    *   [Media Kit](https://genio.co/about/media-kit)

*   Contact and support
    *   [Get in touch](https://genio.co/contact)
    *   [Help centre](https://help.genio.co/)Opens in a new tab
    *   [Device compatibility](https://genio.co/specification)
    *   [Service status](https://status.genio.co/)Opens in a new tab

*   [Visit us on our social](https://www.facebook.com/GenioLearn)
*   [Visit us on our social](https://www.instagram.com/geniolearn)
*   [Visit us on our social](https://uk.linkedin.com/company/geniolearn)
*   [Visit us on our social](https://www.youtube.com/@geniotools)
*   [Visit us on our social](https://www.tiktok.com/@geniolearn)

*   [![Image 87: Icon](https://genio.co/hs-fs/hubfs/website/vectors/Google_Play_Store_badge_EN.png?width=120&name=Google_Play_Store_badge_EN.png)Download app](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.genio.notes)
*   [![Image 88: Icon](https://genio.co/hubfs/website/vectors/Download_on_the_App_Store_Badge_US-UK_RGB_blk_092917.svg)Download app](https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/genio-notes/id6758772863)

*   [Privacy Notice](https://genio.co/privacy-notice)
*   [Service Agreement](https://genio.co/service-agreement)
*   [Accessibility Statement](https://genio.co/accessibility-statement)
*   [Data Security](https://genio.co/security)
*   [Third Party Licenses](https://genio.co/third-party-code-licenses)
*   [Cookie Preferences](https://genio.co/cookies)

[](https://genio.co/blog/navigating-budget-restrictions)
