In a major move to bolster innovation in disability-inclusive tech, Innovate Now, Africa’s first assistive-technology accelerator, has officially launched its eighth cohort under its digital assistive technology initiative. Based in Nairobi and managed by the Global Disability Innovation Hub with key partners, this accelerator is transforming the tech startup landscape by focusing on scalable, clinically validated assistive solutions Do it Now Now+12Innovate Now+12Innovate Now+12.
How the Program Works
- 3–6 month hybrid model pilot – Innovate Now offers a bespoke accelerator program targeting venture-stage startups, combining mentorship, live-labs, investor introductions, and product-market fit support Innovate Now+1Innovate Now+1.
- Deep clinical validation – Through partnerships with foundations and healthcare specialists, startups gain real-world testing and user feedback to ensure their technology meets accessibility standards .
Since its inception in 2019 and with backing from UK Aid’s AT2030 fund, Innovate Now has now supported over 45 assistive-tech ventures, spanning cohorts focused on mobile tools, mobility aids, and educational technologies for children and adults with disabilities Innovate Now+1Innovate Now+1.
Spotlight: Cohort 8 – A Focus on Digital AT
This latest cohort highlights the accelerator’s shift toward digital assistive solutions, addressing challenges across education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and everyday living. Startups selected have demonstrated strong potential to leverage digital tools—like apps and smart devices—to improve the independence of users with disabilities .
Strategic Backing and Ecosystem Support
Innovate Now operates under a consortium led by the Global Disability Innovation Hub, in partnership with ICT Norway and Norad. This collaboration continues a trend of institutional support that began in 2022 when the Norwegian government reaffirmed investment in this initiative—supporting the fifth cohort and signifying long-term commitment to digital AT in Africa Innovate Now+3Global Disability Innovation Hub+3Innovate Now+3.
Demo Day and Investor Engagement
At the conclusion of the program, startups will pitch their innovations at a high-profile Demo Day attended by investors, NGOs, and ecosystem partners. These events have previously highlighted technologies enabling communication for children with disabilities, mobility aids, and adaptive sanitation solutions Innovate Now.
Impact Driven Growth
- 21 ventures launched in first four cohorts
- Cohort 7 focused on mobility for children and elderly, producing several promising startups Innovate NowInnovate Now
- Over 45 startups accelerated to date, as reported by the initiative’s network
Looking Ahead
With a strong pipeline, Innovate Now aims to fuel the next wave of digital AT startups that can scale across Africa. This latest cohort underscores a strategic pivot to tech-enabled assistive products—while maintaining robust mentorship, clinical validation, and investor connection.
Summary
Innovate Now continues to shape Africa’s assistive technology landscape through a proven accelerator model that blends digital innovation, clinical validation, and sustainable investment. As cohort eight gets underway, it marks another milestone toward inclusive tech that empowers persons with disabilities across the continent.