SUNRISE – Thanks to 16,000 Florida vehicle owners choosing the “Support Autism Programs” specialty license plate this year, the Autism Services Grants Council is awarding nearly $170,000 to 18 nonprofit organizations and helping to bring life-changing programs and services to more than 4,500 Florida families and individuals with autism and related disabilities.

“Through the simple act of choosing the autism specialty license plate when they obtain or renew their tags, Florida drivers are helping to meet the increasing demand for programs and services that improve the lives of those with autism and related disabilities,” said Arc Broward Vice President Jennifer Stewart, chair of the Autism Services Grants Council in Florida. “Behind every grant is a person who may gain a new skill, find greater independence, connect with their community or experience something they once thought was out of reach,” said Stewart.

According to the latest statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, autism identification among 8-year-olds rose from about 1 in 150 in 2000 to about 1 in 31 in 2022, and CDC cites growing demand for diagnostic, treatment and support services. 

The Autism Services Grants Council and the Florida Autism License Plate Program, administered by Arc Broward, award grants annually to nonprofit organizations that support vital services for individuals with autism and related disabilities, including specialized therapeutic programs, skill development, vocational training, educational support and accessibility programs.

Funding from the 2026-2027 Florida Autism License Plate grant cycle will support a diverse range of programs and services across the state, from free sailing camps and equine-assisted therapy to a fashion design microenterprise program and marine biologist bootcamp.