How ZipperBuddy is Enhancing Fashion Accessibility
Who is Sandi DeRuntz?
Sandi DeRuntz is the CEO and founder of ZipperBuddy, a company dedicated to enhancing clothing accessibility for individuals with mobility differences.
Sandi has earned the Contribution to a Healthier Lifestyle award in the Wrist DifferenceMaker $50k Idea Challenge.
The Journey of ZipperBuddy
ZipperBuddy is a device that transforms traditional zippers into user-friendly one-handed fasteners, empowering individuals with mobility constraints to dress independently.
What started as a playful wave design in the first prototype soon evolved into a practical solution with genuine impact. For Bob Clancy, who inspired the creation of ZipperBuddy after surviving a stroke, the device has been life-changing.
A Passion for Advocacy
Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Sandi is an advocate for mental health, neurodivergent inclusion, and disability rights. She mentors students navigating higher education and champions affordable housing initiatives. Her advocacy work underscores her belief that true innovation thrives in environments that celebrate diversity and individual strengths.
Sandi holds an Associate of Arts and Sciences in General Studies from Central Virginia Community College [2022] and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Liberal Arts with concentrations in Studio Art and Psychology and a minor in Disability Studies at the University of Massachusetts Lowell [2025].
What to Expect from Sandi’s Talk at IDEA Con
At IDEA Con, Sandi will share her journey from student to founder, highlighting the strides ZipperBuddy has made in adaptive clothing design. Her talk will focus on:
- The importance of accessibility in fashion.
- Overcoming challenges as a young entrepreneur.
- The role of empathy and community in driving innovation.
Why Attend IDEA Con?
IDEA Con is the only cross-college conference of its kind, designed for collegiate students and recent alums in Boston and beyond. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with movers and shakers from schools across the Northeast, be inspired by speakers like Sandi DeRuntz, and attend workshops that will help you build the skills you need to succeed—whatever your career goals.
Connect with Sandi and ZipperBuddy
Stay up-to-date with Sandi and ZipperBuddy by following their LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
Join us in celebrating innovation, community, and the spirit of entrepreneurship at IDEA Con 2024. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowering world.
Can’t wait to see you there!
Click here to register for IDEA Con for free today and learn more about our exciting lineup of speakers and events!
