The Zero Project Technology Forum

Where ICT solutions meet global investors and partners

Logo of the Zero Project Technology Forum

Save the date:

February 17, 2026 | Vienna

get in touch 

 

 

 

The Zero Project Technology Forum is an exclusive in-person event held annually ahead of the Zero Project Conference. It connects innovators pitching scalable ICT solutions for disability inclusion with global investors and partners.

Logo of the Zero Project Technology Forum

Save the date:

February 17, 2026 | Vienna

get in touch 

 

 

 

Curated Matchmaking and Active Participation

From participants:

"We developed some connections, exchanged information, and, more importantly, it empowered our confidence to continue this journey."

“We learned about some potentially interesting technologies that make sense in our offerings.”

"An amazing, positive, and vibrant event. We were lucky to be invited. "

Months of preparation go into identifying the most promising solutions, as well as investors, corporate partners, and multipliers positioned to support their scaling. Carefully curated matchmaking opportunities are designed to maximize impact, enabling high-potential innovators to engage directly with key stakeholders from across the global Zero Project Network.

The format of the Forum is intentionally interactive: professional innovation pitches alternate with focused networking sessions. There is no passive audience—every participant in the room plays an active role. The event is fully accessible and in-person, with no remote attendance, ensuring high-quality engagement throughout.

 

With the support of:

From participants:

"We developed some connections, exchanged information, and, more importantly, it empowered our confidence to continue this journey."

“We learned about some potentially interesting technologies that make sense in our offerings.”

"An amazing, positive, and vibrant event. We were lucky to be invited. "

Connecting regional and global innovation ecosystems

A globe where the continents are in dark green, the seas are invisible and the lines are connecting countries and continents with each other.

The Forum also serves as a model for building regional and global innovation ecosystems. Drawing on its proven format and methodology, the Zero Project collaborates with regional partners to support localized events—advancing inclusive tech innovation by linking local ecosystems with global expertise, investment, and networks.

Select innovations presented at these regional events may be invited to the Zero Project Technology Forum and Conference 2026 in Vienna, enabling further international exposure and collaboration.

Regional events overview:

Zero Project Technology Forum 2025

Key figures:

  • March 4, 2025

  • 20 ICT innovations

  • 1 Day invitation-only event (in person)

  • Investors & Multipliers: Multinationals, NGOs, Public Funders, and more.

Impressions from the event: browse the gallery

A candid photo of audience members talking and reading as the seem to await the beginning of the event. Their clothing and lanyards indicate a professional yet not too formal setting.
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Zero Project's Wilfried Kain is seen speaking into a microphone in front of a very large screen. Fragments of the event name and logo are seen, all branded in the usual Zero Project green and white colours. The UniCredit Bank Austria logo is seen on a lectern; a hint to one of the organisations supporting the event.
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A candid photo of Independo's Konstantin Strümpf smiling at event co-organiser and moderator David Banes, who is seen from behind while speaking. The image captures a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for innovators pitching on stage.
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Equivalent's Heather Neff is pictured pitching on stage in front of a very large screen with her presentation and the Zero Project logo.
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This photo is taken from the far end of the room, showing the audience from behind as they attentively listen to MIGAM's Pawel POTAKOWSKI pitching on stage.
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A candid photo of members of the audience smiling in what seems to be a relaxed atmosphere.
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Mary Fernandez of Cisco speaks with another participant during the networking session. They appear deeply engaged in conversation at a table, with other participants visible around them.
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A candid photo of people engaged in conversations at various tables during the networking session.
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A close-up of AccessibleSurveys' Jerry Nichols speaking with two other participants during the networking session.
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Tatsuya Honda demonstrates an Ontenna device to another participant, seemingly explaining its functionality.
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Mari Carmen SUÁREZ-FIGUEROA of Ateca is seen pitching on stage, addressing the audience, with her slides displayed on a large screen in the background.
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Rob Van de Veen holds a Felix robot, glowing in vibrant purple light. The photo plays with the contrast between the bright purple glow and the dark black-and-blue background, with Rob appearing as a silhouette.
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The Technology Forum stage is visible during the Access Robot presentation, displayed on a large screen, with audience members seated in front.
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Nick GOMPERTZ of EarSwitch is seen immersed in a conversation with Alvin Tan of SG Enable at a table during the networking session.
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Get in touch:

If you're interested in joining the next edition of the event in February 2026—whether as an innovator, investor, or multiplier—reach out to the Zero Project Team!

office@zeroproject.org

 

Outstanding innovations, ready to scale and deploy

Here are some of the 20 ICT solutions showcased at the Zero Project Technology Forum 2025.

  • A woman with a headset uses sign language in a customer service environment, as shown by Czech subtitles. Her professional attire and concentration emphasize the inclusivity of workplaces that accommodate sign language users, reinforcing equal opportunities in communication-focused roles.

    Czech Republic

    Deafcom

    Deafcom in the Czech Republic develops VRS/VRI software for deaf users, supporting phone calls and…

  • A woman, possibly South Asian, is engaged in a moment of discovery or learning as she holds a prosthetic hand. The scene, set in Karachi, Pakistan, showcases technological advancements in assistive devices, advocating for disability inclusion and innovation in healthcare for empowerment and equality.

    Pakistan

    Bionikx Prosthetics

    Bioniks in Pakistan sold 700 prosthetics by 2024, leveraging AI tools and 3D scanning for custom…

  • Three individuals, appearing to be family members or close friends, sit together, each holding a small device that seems to light up based on interactions. Their expressions are warm and engaged, symbolizing technology's role in fostering social and emotional connections in an inclusive environment.

    Netherlands

    Happybots Felix

    Happybots in the Netherlands developed Felix, an AI 'buddy' for psychosocial disabilities. By 2024,…

Zero Project Technology Forum 2024

 

“The Zero Project Technology Forum is an innovative laboratory and an important source of inspiration for companies, organizations and politics to get early access to the latest innovations for persons with disabilities. As a pioneer in accessibility and services for people with disabilities in all of Europe, it is very important for us to be a partner of the Zero Project Technology Forum in order to remain as an innovation leader at the forefront of technological developments."Robert Zadrazil, CEO of UniCredit Bank Austria

Innovation Pitches at the Zero Project Conference 2024

Innovations from the Zero Project Technology Forum 2024 also had the opportunitiy to present their solutions in front of a global audience at the UN Offices in Vienna, Austria, as part of the Zero Project Conference 2024. Discover some of the innovations on YouTube:

Innovation Pitches

Impressions of Pitches & Networking

This is a vibrant photo of an indoor event, possibly a conference or seminar. A diverse audience is seated on colorful chairs, attentively watching a presentation. The presenter, standing in front of a large screen, appears to be engaging with the audience. On the screen, there's a QR code and what seems to be a logo for "Lingvano" alongside other content. The room is well-lit with natural light and has a contemporary feel. The setup suggests a professional environment fostering learning and knowledge exchange, aligning with principles of growth and collaboration.
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This is a photograph of a diverse group of people attending a presentation or lecture in a modern indoor setting. In the foreground, a speaker stands with a microphone in one hand and a smartphone in the other, appearing to be engaging with the audience or conducting a presentation. The attendees are sitting, facing the speaker, and include individuals of varying ages and backgrounds. Notably, there is a person in a wheelchair in the front row, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in this gathering. The environment suggests a theme of shared learning or discussion, where every person's presence and attention reinforces the values of equality, tolerance, and collective advancement.
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This is a photograph of a woman speaking at a presumably professional or academic event. She is holding a microphone in one hand and a remote or clicker in the other, suggesting she is either delivering a presentation or facilitating a session. Behind her is a large screen displaying what appears to be a close-up image of hands typing on a computer keyboard. The woman is dressed in smart business attire and appears engaged and communicative. Her presence at the podium signifies her as a figure of authority or expertise within the context of this event, embodying a theme of empowerment and knowledge-sharing.
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The photo depicts a modern indoor setting with three individuals in the foreground engaged in a conversation. The person on the left is seated in a wheelchair, suggesting the importance of accessibility and inclusion. They are directly facing a standing individual on the right who appears engaged and holds a document. Another person stands beside, slightly turned away, implying a group setting. The environment conveys a professional atmosphere, promoting themes of collaboration and diversity. The bright interior and presence of plants add a welcoming ambiance.
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In the photo, two individuals appear to be engaged in a conversation across a table adorned with various items, including papers and pens, suggesting a collaborative or workshop setting. The foreground shows the back of one person who is gesturing with their hand. The person facing the camera has a contemplative expression and seems to be attentively listening or pondering a response. The environment evokes themes of cooperation, dialogue, and the exchange of ideas in what might be an educational or professional context. The image captures a moment of human interaction where respect and consideration are present.
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The image depicts a group of individuals in a vibrant meeting or conference room setting. A woman in the center, who appears to be African, is laughing and engaging warmly with those around her, which includes a diverse mix of men and women with different ethnic backgrounds. The atmosphere is convivial and inclusive, suggesting a positive and collaborative environment. The people are dressed in business casual attire, and there looks to be a digital screen in the background that possibly displays a presentation or company information. The setting conveys a sense of equality and open dialogue among participants, which aligns with themes of tolerance and cooperation. The joyful expression on the central figure suggests a moment of genuine connection and shared understanding, highlighting the importance of human interaction in fostering a just and supportive community.
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The image shows a diverse and inclusive scene within a room with a mix of individuals engaged in conversation. In the foreground, a man with a disability is seated in a wheelchair, attentively listening and turning towards another man who is standing and holding papers. A younger individual on crutches is actively interacting with them. The man in the wheelchair and the man standing both appear to be of South Asian descent. The environment suggests a social or professional gathering where different abilities and backgrounds are represented, reflecting themes of inclusivity and communication across diverse groups.
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The image documents a scene of cooperation and exchange in what appears to be a workplace seminar or conference setting. Several individuals are seated at tables, engaged in conversation. In the foreground, an East Asian man in a blue shirt is actively gesturing and talking to a person sitting beside him, suggesting an impassioned discussion or collaboration. The attendees are focused on papers on the table, perhaps working on a group task or sharing ideas. There's a sense of diversity and teamwork, as people from different backgrounds contribute to a common goal, embodying principles of inclusion and collective effort.
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This image captures a moment of interaction between two individuals at what appears to be a professional or social event. A woman, possibly of African descent, is smiling and making engaging eye contact with an older man as they hold hands in what may be a handshake or a warm gesture of greeting. Both are dressed in business attire, suggesting a formal setting. The background shows other individuals conversing, indicating a gathering that encourages networking and exchange of ideas. The atmosphere appears convivial and inclusive, with various individuals from diverse backgrounds engaging in conversation. The image is a positive reflection of mutual respect and camaraderie among professionals.
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The photo depicts a professional setting where a diverse group of individuals are engaged in a discussion, potentially at a workshop or conference. In the foreground, a man with a name tag labeled "Christo" is evidently addressing others around a table. A woman looks on with an expression that suggests contemplation or engagement. In the background, more participants are visible, suggesting a collaborative or educational environment. The individuals are dressed in business casual attire, indicating a professional or semi-formal event. The diversity of genders and ethnic backgrounds among the group reflects a setting of inclusivity and open dialogue.
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The image shows a group of people in a meeting or workshop setting. They appear to be engaged in a discussion, with diverse individuals focusing their attention on a central point not visible in the photo. The composition of the group includes men and women, displaying a range of ages and ethnic backgrounds, suggesting a setting that values diversity and inclusion. The environment looks modern and collaborative, with laptops indicating the use of technology in their work. This scene reflects contemporary workplace values such as teamwork, equality, and mutual respect.
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The photo shows a diverse group of individuals engaged in what appears to be a collaborative setting, likely an educational or professional environment. In the foreground, two men are conversing actively, with one man explaining something to the other and gesturing towards a laptop screen. Another person in the background seems to be raising her hand, perhaps to ask a question or contribute to the discussion. The presence of laptops suggests a modern, tech-oriented workspace or learning session. This setting exemplifies an inclusive atmosphere where people of different backgrounds are engaged in constructive dialogue and learning, advocating values of equality, tolerance, and mutual assistance.
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The Zero Project Technology Forum 2023

Facts & Figures:

  • 1 Day invitation-only event prior to the Zero Project Conference
  • 29 global ICT-innovators from all over the world selected as Zero Project Awardees or promising technology for disability inclusion; 
  • Investors & Multipliers: IT-multinationals, NGOs, Public Funders, and more e.g. Google, Microsoft, Atos, WHO, and the World Bank
  • preview of video: Technology Forum 2023

    YouTube

    Technology Forum 2023

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