Assistive Technology: Transforming today and creATing futures
From Tuesday, 1 to Thursday, 3 April 2025
Global Disability Summit (GDS)
STATION Berlin, Luckenwalder Str. 4-6, 10963 Berlin, Germany
The third Global Disability Summit (GDS), hosted by the governments of Germany and Jordan, in collaboration with the International Disability Alliance (IDA), will take place in Berlin in April 2025. The GDS is a global platform established in 2017 to enhance the lives of persons with disabilities, particularly in the global south, by promoting disability-inclusive development and humanitarian action through international cooperation.
ATscale, in close collaboration with the hosts of the Global Disability Summit has curated an exhibition entitled "Transforming today and creATing future" for the GDS and the Civil Society Forum.
The exhibition will showcase the transformative impact of assistive technology (AT) and feature AT users, suppliers, distributors, non-profits, and innovators from around the world. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the functionality of AT products firsthand through demonstrations and interactive activities, highlighting the evolution of the AT landscape driven by stakeholders across various sectors.
Spotlight on exhibitors:
GO Assistive Technology, (UK) is on a mission to create game-changing prosthetic solutions appropriate for everyone. Using robust and cost-effective technologies inspired by the car industry, their artificial leg is designed to accurately replicate human motion while being waterproof, dustproof, durable, and stable on all terrains.
Instituto Jô Clemente, (Brazil) is a Civil Society Organization that, for over 63 years, has been dedicated to promoting health and quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and rare diseases.
Benetech, (USA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing accessibility and equity through technology. Their mission is to empower individuals with disabilities, particularly in developing countries, by providing inclusive digital solutions that enable them to learn, work, and thrive.
Dot Glasses, (Kenya) manufactures glasses, testing tools and trains non-eyecare specialists to effectively sell glasses affordably to the most underserved communities. This boosts livelihoods, education, gender equality, quality of life and wellbeing.
AcoSound Technology, (China) established in 2011, is the first domestic hearing aid manufacturer to achieve independent R&D of hearing aid chips. The company has played a pivotal role in defining and establishing testing standards for hearing aid channels, significantly contributing to the standardization of hearing assistance devices.
Shonaquip Social Enterprise, (South Africa) is more than just an assistive technology provider, they are changemakers working to create a world where every person with a disability has the right support to thrive. Their work goes beyond wheelchairs; they focus on the full journey of access, from assessment and fitting to training and long-term support, ensuring every assistive device truly meets the user’s needs.
NeoMotion, (India) founded by IIT Madras alumni, is dedicated to transforming the lives of people with disabilities and the elderly through innovative mobility solutions. The company has developed NeoFly, a customized wheelchair, and NeoBolt, a motorized clip-on. These products address critical indoor and outdoor mobility challenges, enhancing accessibility, independence, and overall well-being.
3DP4ME, (USA / Jordan) is empowering patients to walk, move, and hear with 3D printed prostheses and hearing aids. They focus on providing holistic healthcare solutions in the Middle East, helping vulnerable children gain access to life-changing care.
LLVision, (China) is a global leader in augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI), specializing in AR optics and computer vision. LLVision also developed the world’s first AR subtitle glasses, using AI speech-to-text for seamless communication accessibility. With nearly 500 patents, LLVision is committed to integrating AR+AI into industries, driving intelligent transformation.
Signvrse, (Kenya) is making sign language as easy to access as spoken language. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and motion capture, they break down communication barriers for 430 million Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who struggle to access education, healthcare, jobs, and digital services.
Microsoft, (USA / Germany) is a global leader in software, IT security, hardware, and open-source development platforms. Accessibility is a core value at Microsoft, integrated into all products and services, including Copilot, to support people with disabilities. From Windows 11 to Microsoft 365, inclusive design and assistive technologies ensure everyone can participate fully in the digital world. Collaborating with politics, business, and science, Microsoft drives initiatives to ensure inclusive participation in the digital society’s progress.
Torchit, (India) is a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities through innovative and affordable assistive technology. They create inclusive opportunities through skilling programs, employment initiatives, and AI-driven accessibility solutions, such as the Saarthi Smart Cane and Jyoti AI Smart Glass, ensuring that assistive technology becomes a bridge to independence and dignity for every individual.
OADCPH, (Togo) is transforming the lives of people with disabilities in Africa. Based in Togo since 2012, OADCPH is a not-for-profit NGO that facilitates access to assistive technology related to vision, hearing and mobility. Thanks to ATscale, it has developed a strategy for its next 5 years. Its achievements include the creation of a central purchasing unit, the supply of 600 tonnes of equipment, support for several organizations, and helping thousands of vulnerable people to access services.
Ottobock, (Germany) for more than 100 years, it has been developing innovative fitting solutions for people with reduced mobility. With innovative power, outstanding technical solutions and services in the fields of Prosthetics, Orthotics, NeuroMobility and Patient Care, Ottobock enables people in 135 countries to live their lives the way they want them to. As a Human Empowerment Company, Ottobock promotes freedom of movement, quality for life and independence.