Autism Support Surges as Detection Hits 1 in 31 Children Nationwide
Corporate sponsorship boosts autism support in New Jersey as technology firms create sensory tools, driving growth in accessible community fundraising

Corporate America is quietly putting serious money behind autism support, and the numbers tell a story of both opportunity and genuine need. As autism detection in the United States rises to 1 in 31 in 2025, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, companies are stepping up with targeted sponsorships that go beyond traditional corporate philanthropy.
The latest example comes from New Jersey, where technology company Burble Creativity has committed to sponsor Spectrum 360’s 2025 Walk for a Lifetime on 1 June at Verona Park. The event , which supports Autism New Jersey, represents one of the region’s largest autism community gatherings, bringing together thousands of families and advocates.
Following the Money in Autism Fundraising
We don’t run ads or share your data. If you value independent content and real privacy, support us by sharing.
Corporate sponsorship of autism events has grown substantially, driven by both rising need and business recognition of an underserved market. Global event sponsorship spending hit $65.8 billion in 2021 and continues climbing in 2025, with nonprofits creating flexible sponsorship packages to attract businesses of all sizes.
The financial stakes are considerable. In New Jersey alone, the state budget includes $22.5 million in new funding for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the Division of Developmental Disabilities. Yet demand still outstrips supply, creating opportunities for corporate partnerships to fill gaps.
‘Sponsorships like theirs are essential to the fundraising that powers our programs and services, helping us reach more individuals and families across New Jersey,’ said Jamie Linton, Special Events Coordinator at Spectrum360 . The organisation provides specialised programs for people with autism to help them lead fulfilling lives and engage fully with their communities.
Technology Companies Lead the Charge
What makes Burble Creativity ‘s involvement particularly noteworthy is the company’s focus on developing actual tools for neurodivergent children, not just writing cheques. Their StoryTent technology creates portable, multisensory environments using lights, sounds and narrative cues to support emotional regulation and imaginative play.
This reflects a broader trend in the sensory toys market , which stood at $1.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2033. The autism-specific segment, valued at about $36 million in 2024, is expected to grow at 5.4% annually through 2031.

‘As a company dedicated to creating calming, sensory-friendly storytelling experiences, we are honoured to participate,’ said Jay Goth, CEO of Burble Creativity. ‘This is more than a walk—it’s a movement toward greater understanding, accessibility and opportunity for every neurodivergent child.’
The approach mirrors broader developments in immersive marketing experiences where technology integration drives meaningful brand engagement rather than superficial corporate gestures.
Why Corporate Support Matters Now
The timing isn’t coincidental. Approximately 15-20% of the world’s population is neurodivergent , yet 85% of adults with autism in the United States remain unemployed or underemployed. Companies are beginning to recognise both the moral imperative and business opportunity in supporting this community.
Recent funding trends show corporate partnerships becoming more strategic. Instead of one-off donations, companies are developing ongoing relationships with autism organisations, often tied to their core business offerings. Bad Mermaid, for example, donates 2% of all product sales to Autism Speaks with a minimum $5,000 annual commitment.
The approach reflects what fundraising experts call ‘dynamic sponsorship packages’—arrangements that provide genuine value to businesses while addressing specific community needs. For technology companies especially, autism support aligns with broader commitments to accessibility and inclusion, similar to how innovative fundraising initiatives are reshaping charitable giving.
New Jersey’s Autism Support Infrastructure
New Jersey has become something of a laboratory for autism services funding. The state’s recent budgets have included millions in new funding to enhance in-home, community and adult services. Autism New Jersey leads advocacy efforts to increase service availability, working closely with state officials and service providers to ensure medically necessary behavioural services reach those who need them.
The organisation estimates approximately 8,000 New Jersey residents receive autism-related services through FamilyCare, the state’s Medicaid program. Yet families still report significant financial pressure, with many spending 10% or more of their income on medical bills not covered by insurance.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Walk for a Lifetime represents more than a single fundraising event. Registration begins at 9am with opening ceremonies at 11am, but the real measure of success will be whether corporate sponsorships like Burble’s translate into sustainable support for autism services.
To register for the Walk for a Lifetime or donate: Walk for a Lifetime 2025
With 60% of charities optimistic about fundraising in 2025, events like these may signal a shift toward more targeted, technology-driven corporate philanthropy. For families navigating autism services in New Jersey and beyond, that corporate engagement could make the difference between waiting lists and actual support.
About Burble Creativity
Burble Creativity is a California-based technology company specializing in sensory-friendly tools for neurodivergent children. Founded to address gaps in assistive technology, the firm develops portable multisensory environments designed for therapeutic and educational settings.
The company operates through direct sales to institutions and families while maintaining partnerships with autism organizations nationwide.
For more information: www.burblecreativity.com .