Drew Ann Long is the inventor of Caroline’s Cart, a game-changing, patented, special-needs shopping cart designed to provide an inclusive and accessible shopping experience for individuals with special needs. Inspired by her daughter Caroline, who has special needs and could not use a traditional cart, Drew Ann took matters into her own hands—sketching her first idea on a napkin and eventually bringing the patented design to life. Today, Caroline’s Cart is in retailers across all 50 states and eight countries, used by families, caregivers, senior adults, and stores committed to inclusion, accessibility and dignity.
A former stay-at-home mom with no background in engineering or manufacturing, Drew Ann’s journey is one of remarkable grit and innovation. She navigated the complex world of product development, patents, brand building, and production —ultimately launching and leading a nationwide grassroots movement that challenged retailers to think differently about inclusion. Her story has been featured on Today, CNN, Inside Edition, and CBS News, and she has earned recognition from Walmart, Target, Michelle Obama, and advocacy groups across the U.S.
Now an inspirational speaker and founder of her nonprofit Caroline’s Cause, Drew Ann brings her story to the stage to empower and challenge audiences to lead with empathy, persevere through adversity, and prioritize inclusion in everyday life and business. Her authenticity, purpose-driven innovation, and ability to connect make her a sought-after voice in conversations about caregiving, special needs advocacy, and real-world impact.