#ZeroCon27 Media Lounge

A dedicated space for disability journalism

Zero Project Conference 2027 logo on a light gray background. On the left is a green square containing a white stylized plant icon inside a circle. To the right, the words “Zero Project” appear in bold black text above “Conference 2027” in bold green text, using a clean modern sans-serif font.

Save the date:

February 10-12, 2027

At the United Nations Office at Vienna

 

 

Disability innovation | Peer community | Your next story

The #ZeroCon27 Media Lounge is a dedicated space for disability journalism at the Zero Project Conference 2027 (February 10–12). It offers media professionals unique opportunities to connect with cross-media and international peers. With 1,000+ disability inclusion experts gathering at the United Nations Office at Vienna, the Media Lounge also provides infrastructure and support to maximize all three days for research and story production.

At the intersection of media and disability innovation

What is the Zero Project Conference?

The annual Zero Project Conference is a unique platform to share innovative solutions for disability inclusion, bringing together 1,000+ policymakers, innovators, business leaders, and self-advocates in one accessible space. Showcased innovations—the Zero Project Awardees—are selected through an extensive multi-step process in close collaboration with a cross-sectoral and global network of experts.

#ZeroCon27 topics:

  • Independent Living
  • Political Participation
  • Assistive Technology (AT)

#ZeroCon27 

Two conference participants meet and share a laugh: both are wheelchair users, one from Nigeria, the other from Colombia. They try wheelchair attachments. Other participants from different backgrounds are visible in the background.

Who should join the #ZeroCon27 Media Lounge?

  • Michael Fembek during an interview for a ZDF documentary at ZeroCon25

    Mainstream journalists with an interest in disability inclusion

    Radio, TV, print, and digital reporters covering health, society, technology, or politics —looking for vetted innovations and expert voices from across the globe.

  • An exclusive press briefing with Jenny Lay-Flurrie at ZeroCon26, with Double Tap, ORF, and Forbes talking to Jenny.

    Disability-led media: Independent professionals and community outlets

    Journalists, producers, and editors reporting from within the disability community —across podcasts, Deaf-led channels, newsletters, and other formats —connecting with global innovators and fellow media makers.

  • A professional camera is seen in a plenary room during a session; the panelists smile while the crowd can be seen cheering in sign language.

    Journalism schools and fellowship programmes

    Organizations seeking a real-world conference setting for capacity-building workshops, story incubators, and cross-sectoral knowledge transfer.

Why join the Media Lounge?

Credibility your editors will trust

Vetted innovations, expert sources, institutional weight

  • Every Zero Project Awardee has passed a rigorous peer review and fact-checking process.
  • Diverse, expert sources from around the world: Innovators, policymakers, and self-advocates—all in one place, available for first-hand interviews.
  • Institutional weight through United Nations backing: The conference has been hosted at the United Nations Office at Vienna, annually since 2014.
  • Organiser: Essl Foundation which holds ECOSOC consultative status.
  • Zero Project Website: Published conference related pieces are referenced on the Zero Project’s high-authority website.

Get discovered by new audiences

1,000+ participants on-site, #ZeroCon momentum online

  • Conference participants: Your logo and profile featured on the #ZeroCon27 conference platform.
  • Socials: Your conference related coverage shared via the Zero Project’s stories on Instagram (4.7k+ Followers) and Facebook (10.8k+ Followers).
  • Zero Project Website: Your coverage referenced on a dedicated Media Lounge page.

A space for networking and story production

Watch this video and relive moments from #ZeroCon26:

A screenshot of a YouTube video

A flexible participation model to support collaboration and production

The #ZeroCon27 Media Lounge is not a structured programme; Participants can join and use available infrastructure and support as suitable for their own work.

Please note: Participants are responsible for their own travel costs. Detailed information on conference accessibility will be available shortly. Accessibility services beyond what's provided must be arranged by participants. 

 

Included free-of-charge (subject to availability):

  • Fact sheets, 1-1 call for guidance, direct contact options on conference platform

    Research and prep

  • 100+ sessions, 3 days: Independent Living, Political Participation, and Assistive Tech

    Conference sessions

  • Session livestreams and recordings, access to the conference platform

    Remote participation

  • Swap format ideas, strategies, and build cross-border collaborations

    Connect with Peers

  • In a quiet room in close proximity tothe plenary rooms with Wi-Fi and power outlets

    Accessible workspace

  • With keynote speakers, senior policy voices, leading disability innovators

    Press briefings

  • Bookable on demand for in-depth conversations

    Quiet interview room

  • Specific shots upon request; B-Roll footage available after the conference

    Professional video footage

  • Specific photos upon request; full gallery available after the conference

    Professional photography

  • The Zero Project Team can assist with accreditation of the production team

    UN media accreditation support

Examples of coverage from #ZeroCon26:

Join the #ZeroCon27 Media Lounge

How to participate:

1. By invitation only

Registration is mandatory; places are limited

2. Apply early

Reach out to the Zero Project Team to reserve your place

Send an email

3. Pre-conference call

Consultation to align your story goals with the #ZeroCon27 programme

4. Arrive in Vienna

February 10–12, 2027 at the United Nations Office at Vienna

Please note!

Participants are responsible for their own travel costs. Detailed information on conference accessibility will be available shortly. Accessibility services beyond what's provided must be arranged by participants.