The landscape of disability across the globe is diverse and complex, with an estimated 1 billion people living with some form of disability. In India alone, there are around 26.8 million people with disabilities, each facing unique challenges in their daily lives. Despite global advancements in technology and services, many PwDs still struggle with accessibility and inclusion.

Requirements – Services and Technologies to Promote Accessibility at Affordable Prices

To bridge the gap between disability and accessibility, there is a pressing need for services and technologies that are not only innovative but also affordable. Current solutions often fall into two categories: those that are prohibitively expensive, making them inaccessible to the masses, and those that fail to adequately meet the needs of PwDs. The key to overcoming these challenges lies in fostering passionate start-ups that prioritize understanding the specific requirements of PwDs.

The Role of Start-ups in Accessibility Innovation

Start-ups are emerging with a variety of products aimed at improving the lives of PwDs. However, many of these products are either too costly to become mass-market solutions or do not fully address the needs of the users. What is needed is a comprehensive support system that allows start-ups to gain firsthand insight into the needs of PwDs. This involves guidance from disability experts and mentors, financial support from corporations, government bodies, and investors, and assistance from NGOs to ensure broad penetration and impact.

Global Accessibility Development Center – Fostering a Collaborative Ecosystem

For 16 years, Sarthak Educational Trust has been at the forefront of empowering PwDs through its direct and indirect services, impacting 3.5 million lives. Sarthak has provided placement opportunities to 75,000 individuals and has strong ties with over 100 CSR groups, enabling the provision of free services to PwDs. More than 2,000 corporates are actively hiring PwDs, and 750+ NGOs serving PwDs across India are connected under the India Disability Empowerment Alliance. Supported by state and central government bodies and international organizations, Sarthak's efforts are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to contribute to the inclusion and empowerment of PwDs.

At the Global Accessibility Development Center (GADC), Sarthak is creating a collaborative ecosystem where start-ups, disability experts, corporate partners, government entities, investors, and NGOs come together. This ecosystem supports the development and deployment of accessible technologies, ensuring they are practical, affordable, and widely available. By nurturing innovation and fostering partnerships, GADC is driving the creation of solutions that truly meet the needs of PwDs, paving the way for a more inclusive society.

Objectives

Making Technology Accessible and Affordable to PwDs

•    Providing affordable tech solutions.
•    Ensuring accessibility in everyday technology.

Nurturing Start-ups and Assistive Technology Developers

•    Supporting innovation in the disability sector.
•    Offering resources and mentorship to startups.

Developing a Supportive Eco-system

•    Supporting innovation in the disability sector.
•    Offering resources and mentorship to startups.

Process

The GADC follows a comprehensive approach to drive innovation and inclusion in the disability sector:

1. Identifying Needs:

•    Engaging with PwDs to understand their specific needs and challenges.
•    Conducting research and surveys to gather insights.

2. Supporting Innovation:

•    Providing resources, mentorship, and funding to start-ups.
•    Facilitating collaborations between start-ups and industry experts.

3. Implementing Solutions:

•    Developing and deploying accessible technologies.
•    Ensuring widespread availability and affordability of solutions.

4. Building Ecosystems:

•    Creating partnerships with key stakeholders.
•    Fostering an inclusive environment for ongoing innovation and support.

Significance and Expected Impact

The GADC is dedicated to creating a profound impact in the lives of PwDs by:

•    Empowering PwDs: Enhancing independence and quality of life through accessible technology.
•    Fostering Innovation: Encouraging the development of cutting-edge assistive technologies.
•    Building Inclusive Communities: Promoting collaboration among stakeholders to support disability initiatives.
•    Driving Socio-Economic Change: Contributing to the socio-economic development of PwDs through better access to technology and opportunities.

Stakeholders

•    Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) : GADC has outreached to over 250 start-ups, screening 25+ for the next stage of development. These start-ups are pivotal in driving innovation and providing practical solutions for PwDs.
•    Investors - We collaborate with investors like Valuable, providing the necessary funding to scale impactful solutions.
•    Government : Our initiatives include joint collaborations such as DePwD Purple Talks in Delhi and Goa, highlighting the importance of government support in our mission.
•    Academia Partnerships with esteemed institutions like IIM Udaipur, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Delhi ensure we are at the forefront of research and innovation in the disability sector.
•    Corporate Over 2000 corporate partners support our mission of creating an Equal Opportunity Workplace for PwDs. More than 100 corporates sponsor various Sarthak programs and aid in the development of digital infrastructure and technology for PwDs.