AT2030: Testing 'What Works' in Assistive Technology
First showcased at the Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025, the AT2030 Impact Brochure 2025 details the AT2030 programme's progress and achievements in expanding access to assistive technology (AT) globally, including information on the program's evolution, key outcomes, partnerships, and future directions.
AT2030, a £51.8 million program funded by UK International Development, is dedicated to exploring and testing innovative approaches to provide life-changing assistive technology (AT) to those who need it around the world. Led by the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub), AT2030 aims to address the global challenge where 900 million people currently lack the assistive technology they need. By 2050, this need is projected to affect 2.5 billion disabled people, with 80% located in the global south, where poverty and disability are often compounded by limited AT access.
Since its inception in 2018, AT2030 has actively supported emerging AT innovations, developed innovative service delivery models, and provided venture support. The program has progressed significantly, evolving to incorporate ecosystem opportunities and technical advancements, with AI-driven technology now foundational across its portfolio, accelerating transformative digital solutions. This advancement includes the establishment of the new Centre for Digital Language Inclusion, supported by Google.org, which notably evolved from AT2030's digital AI mobile research.
AT2030's impact is significant, having directly reached 10 million people and indirectly impacted 54 million. Addtionally, AT2030 has enabled 54 countries to implement its ideas, published 203 journal articles and influencing papers, supported 46 innovative AT products, and has 11 innovative service delivery models on track to scale. Additionally, 40 AT ventures have been sustainably supported.
AT2030 operates in over 35 countries, with priority regions including Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, South Asia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania. The program focuses on five key areas: Include, Inquire, Incubate, Invest, and Integrate, each addressing critical research questions to improve AT access and adoption.