Inclusive Technology Prize

What was the Inclusive Tech Prize?

The £250k Inclusive Technology Prize looked for innovative products, technologies and systems that enable disabled people, their families, friends and carers equal access to life’s opportunities.

The prize was co-created with people with disabilities with the aim of inspiring technological innovation that made a real difference to their lives.

The prize was designed and led by Challenge Works and run in partnership with Leonard Cheshire Disability, with support from the Department for Work and Pensions, Innovate UK, the Department for Business Innovation and Skills and Irwin Mitchell.

Why did we do this?

The development and manufacture of aids, adaptations and products has not kept pace with the use of new technologies, materials and design and manufacturing processes as seen in other areas. With over 12 million people with a limiting long-term illness or impairments in Great Britain, many disabled people rely on assisted living technologies to support them in their everyday lives.

This is compounded by the failure of many designers and producers of assistive technology to properly test and develop their ideas and products with potential users, disabled people.

What happened?

• 25 semi-finalists were invited to an induction day, received a £2,000 grant and support over four months to create a development plan for their idea.
• Ten finalists received a £10,000 grant and tailored non-financial support to prototype and user test their idea and produce a business plan.
• One finalist was awarded £50,000 and two finalists received recognition awards worth £35,000 and £15,000.

Impact of the Prize

• 7 out of 10 finalists developed business skills through their participation in the Prize
• 74% of stakeholders involved in the Prize reported that it encouraged and supported innovation
• 65% of stakeholders reported that the Prize supported the creation of new partnerships
• 62% of stakeholders reported that the Prize inspired new solutions
• All finalists reported that the Prize had inspired and supported them to quickly create or refine a new product
• Nine out of ten finalists gained one or more partnerships, which they judged added value to their business
• Finalists felt that they gained credibility from participating in the Prize, supporting the creation of new partnerships