Ben Foss

Ben Foss is an inventor, entrepreneur, and disability rights advocate whose personal experience with dyslexia has shaped his career in assistive technology and neurodiversity advocacy. Diagnosed with dyslexia at age 8, Foss developed strategies for managing his learning difference that influenced his professional pursuits. He graduated from Wesleyan University, receiving the Truman and Marshall scholarships, and holds a JD/MBA from Stanford Law and Business Schools.

While at Stanford, Foss identified a need for greater independence in reading for individuals with dyslexia. This led to the development of a mobile, handheld device that converts printed text into digital text and reads it aloud, known as the Intel Reader. The device, created by taking a picture of written words, was developed at the invitation of Andy Grove, former CEO and chairman of Intel, to advance technology for people with disabilities. The Intel Reader received national media attention for its impact on accessibility.

Foss is the founder of Headstrong Nation, a national organization supporting dyslexic adults and parents of dyslexic children. He also co-founded Integration Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on investing in dyslexic entrepreneurs. As an author, Foss wrote "The Dyslexia Empowerment Plan: A Blueprint for Renewing Your Child's Confidence and Love of Learning," published by Random House, which serves as a practical guide for families navigating dyslexia.

Foss appears in the HBO documentary "Journey Into Dyslexia." His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Fox Business News, ABC, CNN, and the BBC. He regularly speaks to Fortune 500 companies, human resources and public policy organizations, and academic institutions, sharing insights on neurodiversity, disability rights, and inclusive innovation.