Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology corporation which produces computer software, consumer electronics, personal computers, and related services headquartered at the Microsoft Redmond campus located in Redmond, Washington, United States.
About the Proposal
In line with our vision to empower every person and organization on the planet to achieve more, Microsoft has announced equitable access to assistive technologies globally as a key component of our accessibility strategy.
We announced our first call for proposals on low-cost assistive technologies last year and received an overwhelming response from around the world. We awarded 3 projects focused on enhancing education for people with disabilities and developing customizable low-cost assistive technology solutions.
The Microsoft AI for Accessibility program is calling for project proposals that advance equitable access to assistive technology in low and middle-income countries. Unlike many of our previous award rounds, the use of AI is optional and not a requirement. All types of organizations are encouraged to apply — we support startups, nonprofits, academic institutions and more.
We realize this is a complex area with significantly more gaps to fill. Lack of locally relevant technology, ineffective distribution channels, high cost, lack of awareness within the community, policy and procurement issues, and other intersectional factors such as poor internet connectivity and low literacy are just some of the challenges.
Through our second Low-Cost Assistive Technology funding round, we are looking for tech-powered solutions that help address some of these challenges with the goal of enhancing access to assistive technologies around the world.
We believe designing relevant assistive technology with and by people with disabilities in these regions will spur innovation and help to create better opportunities. Also given the complexity of the issue and the role that multiple stakeholders play, we strongly encourage you to partner with others on your vision and application.
In this Request for Proposals, we are prioritizing scalable solutions for the below two themes. We may also consider applications that address other aspects of access to assistive technologies that may not be listed here.
Theme 1: Locally relevant innovation
Theme 2: Distribution and support
Eligibility
We accept applications from any country or region and this round is particularly focused on innovations that will empower people with disabilities outside of the US in low and middle-income countries. We especially welcome innovations and solutions focused on Africa.
How to Apply
Applications are now open on https://aka.ms/application. The last date to submit the application is 11:59 PM PST on November 4th, 2022.
Office hours are held weekly until November 3rd, 2022. The form to request office hours is available on https://aka.ms/LowcostAThrs
Selected finalists will be invited to pitch to a review panel during November with an award decision shortly after.
