What is Specialisterne?
Specialisterne is a social organization that started in Denmark back in 2004. It’s all about creating real job opportunities for people with autism and other neurodivergent conditions. With a presence in 25 countries, this project is dedicated to breaking down barriers in the labor market. The name “Specialisterne” means “the specialists” in Danish, and it perfectly captures the essence of the foundation’s mission: to recognize and harness the unique talents of neurodivergent individuals. From autism and Asperger’s syndrome to other neurodivergences, Specialisterne offers training and employment opportunities, while helping companies understand how to build truly inclusive teams. It’s a win-win — individuals get to shine professionally, and companies benefit from diverse, innovative talent.
Main Benefits of Specialisterne
Specialisterne’s impact is impressive and multifaceted. Here are some key facts and figures that highlight its reach and importance:
- Founded in 2004 by Thorkil Sonne, with over 20 years of experience in neurodiversity inclusion.
- Direct or indirect presence in 25 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Spain, USA, France, Ireland, and more.
- Part of the Specialisterne Foundation, a non-profit aiming to create one million jobs for people with autism and similar diagnoses.
- Recognized in the Forbes Accessibility 100 list in 2025 for driving true cultural transformation through accessibility.
- Strong focus on social entrepreneurship, business engagement, and shifting global mindsets around neurodiversity.
- BCorp score of 85.3, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental performance.
The Specialisterne Foundation’s Vision and Mission
At its core, the Specialisterne Foundation envisions a world where everyone has equal opportunities in the job market. The mission is clear and powerful: provide training and employment to neurodivergent individuals, spread awareness about the value of neurodiversity in workplaces, and share best practices globally. Their values? Respect, adaptation, accessibility, transparency, and sustainability. These aren’t just buzzwords — they shape how the foundation operates daily, ensuring that diversity is embraced and that the model can be scaled to create lasting social impact.
Specialisterne’s Global Network
Specialisterne’s international office network spans continents, making it a truly global movement. From Australia to Mexico, and from Iceland to Northern Ireland, each office tailors its approach to local needs while staying true to the foundation’s core principles. This global footprint allows Specialisterne to collaborate with a wide range of industries — not just IT, where it started, but also museums, logistics, manufacturing, and more. For example, Casa Batlló in Spain became the first cultural entity worldwide to fully embrace neurodiversity by hiring Specialisterne-trained individuals to assist visitors and staff. This kind of partnership shows how neurodiversity inclusion can thrive in diverse settings.
Leadership and Evolution
Specialisterne’s journey has been shaped by visionary leadership. Thorkil Sonne founded the organization after realizing the challenges autistic individuals face in proving their skills in meaningful jobs. In 2023, leadership transitioned to Ramon Bernat as president and Francesc Sistach as global CEO, signaling a new chapter focused on scaling social impact and expanding global reach. This evolution reflects a dynamic organization that’s continuously adapting to meet the needs of neurodivergent talent and the companies eager to include them.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 4: Quality Education – through training and skill development for neurodivergent individuals.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by creating meaningful employment opportunities.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – promoting inclusion and equal opportunities in the workplace.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – collaborating with businesses, public sectors, and global organizations.
Why Neurodiversity Matters
Neurodiversity isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a reality that affects everyone. Specialisterne’s motto, “We are all neurodiverse,” reminds us that embracing different ways of thinking and processing information benefits society as a whole. Companies that include neurodivergent individuals often see increased innovation, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Plus, it’s about creating workplaces where everyone feels valued and respected. Specialisterne’s work is a powerful example of how social companies can drive real change, proving that talent and diversity go hand in hand.
