Apply Now: ITC Global Challenge for Assistive Technologies 2025

The International Trade Centre (ITC) invites entrepreneurs especially those with lived experience of disability or strong inclusion-focused partnerships to design and propose assistive solutions, whether physical, mechanical, or digital, that directly address the needs of persons with disabilities in developing countries.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicant must be a Founder, Co-Founder, or CEO.
• The business must be legally registered.
• Startups founded or co-founded by persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Proposals that feature inclusive co-design processes or target underserved assistive technology (AT) markets in low-income communities will be prioritized.
• Open to participants worldwide.

Benefits

• $5,000 prize awarded to the winning startup.
• Pitch preparation guidance and info sessions on critical topics such as IP.
• Opportunity to showcase solutions at a high-profile global event.
• Increased credibility and visibility through association with leading global institutions.
• Promotion through ITC and partner platforms, including success stories shared with ITC’s global network.

Assistive technologies remain underdeveloped and underfunded across much of Africa, leaving many persons with disabilities excluded from education, employment, and daily living. This challenge aims to spotlight startups — particularly African innovators — that are breaking barriers with inclusion-first solutions.