The availability of assistive technology (AT) can make a tremendous difference in the ability of an individual to work, even when that individual has a severe disability. In the work context, AT serves several functions: it may make it possible to participate in an education or training program; it may make it possible to get prepared to leave the home for work or training; it may make it possible to travel to and from work; and in some cases, the work itself could not be done without the AT. This article will describe how AT can assist individuals with severe disabilities to overcome barriers to gainful employment. It will also describe several key funding sources available, in all states, to pay for the AT devices and services that will help individuals prepare for, get to, and succeed in employment. Specifically, the authors will discuss the public school special education system, state vocational rehabilitation agencies, Medicaid, Medicare, and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program's Plan for Achieving Self Support. Abbreviations and Acronyms Used in This Article are appended. (Contains 72 footnotes.) [For related report, "Funding of Assistive Technology to Make Work a Reality, Part II. Policy & Practice Brief #13," see ED537086.]