The majority of the research conducted regarding minorities with disabilities lacks the direct cultural connotations that can be provided by minority researchers. This is significant because rehabilitation research shapes governmental policy, funding priorities, and program development that can significantly improve the rehabilitation outcomes of minorities with disabilities.

Unfortunately, there is a shortage of minority researchers, with and without disabilities, who are engaged in conducting disability research. Furthermore, many of these individuals do not have institutional capacities to conduct quality research.

Many models and programs have been implemented to increase the number of minorities who matriculate from professional schools. These programs have increased the number of minority professionals and faculty at many colleges and universities. They have also been successful in building capacity among the institution and students to complete undergraduate and graduate training. This program will develop a model to increase the capacity of minority researchers and institutions to be involved in disabilities research.