AXS Lab is dedicated to serving people living with disabilities through media and technology. AXS Lab is a social enterprise that is building a coalition of individuals and organizations to boost the movement for inclusion and accessibility. By creating films and new media, building technology, and supporting creators living with disabilities, AXS Lab broadens the definition of accessibility and advocates for real inclusion globally. AXS Lab is an organization majority run by people living with disabilities, for people living with disabilities.

Started in 2008 as a way for AXS Lab founder Jason DaSilva to document the impact of being diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, AXS Lab’s first project, When I Walk went on to achieve critical success in film festivals worldwide and garnered an Emmy Award for Outstanding Informational Programming Long Form. DaSilva realized there was a need to shift AXS Lab’s focus beyond filmmaking, stating: “I know what it is like to lose your independence, and the social isolation people face when dealing with accessibility. I started AXS Lab with the responsibility to carry the torch for a movement for disability rights, and AXS Lab will continue to tell these stories that were once on the fringes of society.” AXS Lab’s work today focuses on how to use media and technology to advocate for people with disabilities worldwide. AXS Lab is a contributor to the New York Times and produces films that speak to the underlying disability crisis in America.

Jerome Foundation supports the AXS Film Fund program. Through the work of the AXS Film Fund, AXS Lab remains committed to generating equitable opportunities for creative work by people living with disabilities, particularly those of color, and increasing representation on screen and behind the scenes. AXS Film Fund annually supports 3-5 creators, two of whom are an early-career New York City or Minnesota-based artist of color who identifies as living with disabilities. Participants receive a grant, and an eight-month mentorship. The early-career artist additionally receives a one-year IDA DocMaker membership, and a professional development stipend to be used for costs associated with enrolling and attending career development opportunities such as filmmaking workshops, residencies, or attending networking events. AXS Film Fund is led by Program Director Naomi Middleton.