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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about autism-friendly business certification.

What is AutismCertified?+
AutismCertified is a nonprofit platform that certifies businesses as autism-friendly through evidence-based training, assessments, and ongoing support. We help businesses create welcoming environments for individuals with autism and their families.
Who created the certification standards?+
Our standards are developed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), occupational therapists, and autism self-advocates. Every module is grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) best practices and real-world accessibility research.
How does the certification process work?+
Businesses complete online training modules, pass an assessment, and implement recommended accommodations. After review, certified businesses receive a badge, window sticker, and listing in our public directory so families can find them.
What are the certification tiers?+
We offer three tiers: Starter ($299/yr) for foundational awareness training, Certified ($999/yr) for comprehensive staff training plus on-site assessment, and Advanced ($2,499/yr) for full organizational transformation with ongoing consulting.
Is AutismCertified a nonprofit?+
Yes. We are pursuing 501(c)(3) status. 100% of certification fees fund the mission — developing training content, maintaining the directory, and making certification accessible to small businesses.
How long does certification take?+
Most businesses complete the Starter tier in 2–4 weeks. Certified and Advanced tiers involve more in-depth training and assessment, typically 4–8 weeks depending on business size.
What types of businesses can get certified?+
Any customer-facing business: restaurants, retail stores, dental offices, theme parks, hotels, salons, gyms, childcare centers, and more. If families visit your business, certification can help.
How do families find certified businesses?+
Our searchable online directory lets families filter by location, business type, and certification tier. Certified businesses also display a window sticker and digital badge so families can spot them instantly.
What accommodations do certified businesses implement?+
Common accommodations include sensory-friendly spaces, visual schedules, trained staff who understand communication differences, reduced sensory stimuli during certain hours, and clear signage. Specific recommendations vary by business type.
How is AutismCertified different from IBCCES?+
We focus on accessibility and affordability. Our AI-powered training platform reduces costs, our Starter tier makes certification reachable for small businesses, and our nonprofit model ensures every dollar funds the mission — not shareholders.