Established in 2018, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled’s Assistive Technology Accelerator (ATA) is transforming the assistive technology landscape with a mission to provide affordable and effective solutions for persons with disabilities. ATA strives to foster inclusivity and independence through innovation, making assistive technology accessible to all.

Since its inception, ATA has achieved significant milestones, including the digitization of over 40 special schools and modernization of more than 200 government schools with advanced assistive technology. In partnership with DSERT, Government of Karnataka, ATA is leading a ground-breaking project to convert textbooks for classes 1 to 3 into sign language videos for government-run English medium schools.

Pioneering accessibility further, ATA is integrating AI into its Livelihood Resource Centre training content to create automated sign language videos, catering to diverse learning needs. Collaborations with leading assistive technology start-ups have enabled ATA to extend these innovations nationwide, reaching a broader audience.

To build awareness and drive collaboration, ATA organized two key conclaves on assistive technology—one in Bangalore (February 2023) and another in Mumbai (January 2024). These events convened stakeholders to discuss user-focused design, affordability, and accessibility, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of support and innovation.

Since its establishment, ATA has engaged 22 assistive technology start-ups, showcasing transformative solutions for inclusive and livelihood-focused applications. ATA serves as a crucial hub for technological advancements, empowering individuals with disabilities and driving societal change.

Through these trailblazing efforts, ATA remains dedicated to its vision of making assistive technology universally accessible, championing empowerment, and advancing inclusivity across communities.