A global and free accelerator programme for start-ups building assistive technologies

Solution
ATS Labs
Organization
Access to Success
Country of Implementation
Canada
Region
North America
Start Year
2019
First published
03.12.2024

Access to Success in Canada’s ATS Labs supports accessible start-ups. From 2019-2024, it funded 60 entrepreneurs in five countries through mentorship, resources, and funding.

A diverse group of professionals poses together at an event dedicated to accessibility innovation. A banner for "Access to Success" in the background highlights their commitment to supporting startups focused on disability tech and inclusion. The atmosphere is one of unity, collaboration, and dedication to breaking barriers in accessibility.
From 2019 to 2024, Access to Success backed 60 start-up founders from five countries.

Solution details

People

Varun Chandak Website
“The impact of Access to Success on the assistive tech sector in Canada and beyond is unmatched.” Emma Brown, Founder and CEO, Whimble (ATS Labs 2022 alumna)

Access to Success, a Toronto non-profit, launched ATS Labs in 2019. This annual global accelerator supports start-ups creating accessible, technology-based products through masterclasses, mentorship, resources, and funding for select entrepreneurs. From 2019 to 2024, ATS Labs backed 60 start-up founders from five countries.

Problems Targeted

Globally, there is a lack of accelerator programmes specifically designed to support entrepreneurs in the field of assistive technologies.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Access to Success (ATS) is a non-profit organization based in Toronto. ATS Labs, its accelerator programme, supports entrepreneurs who are developing assistive technologies that address challenges related to mobility, hearing, vision, cognition, and aging. Through a structured three-month programme, ATS Labs provides entrepreneurs with essential resources to scale their innovations, including 30 online masterclasses on topics such as inclusive design and co-design with the disability community. Over 200 leading assistive technology innovators provide mentorship and expert guidance. Start-ups also benefit from connections with partners such as HP, Microsoft, and the Inclusive Innovation Network, a global coalition of AT ecosystems across five continents. Additionally, ATS Labs provides cash and in-kind grants to top-performing start-ups selected at its annual event. ATS Labs conducts one cohort each year, typically consisting of 10 companies, but 14 in 2024. The main selection criteria are: for-profit start-ups offering a product or service benefiting people with disabilities a demonstrable minimum viable product meaningful co-design with the disability community Companies that have emerged from ATS Labs include ImaginAble Solutions (assistive device for individuals with limited hand mobility), Braze Mobility (blind spot sensor for wheelchair users), and Steadiwear (anti-vibration glove).

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

Access to Success is funded by grants, sponsorship, and fee-for-service revenues. It is currently planning a Centre for Accessibility Innovation in Toronto, a flagship location for accessibility research and innovation. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

Media

Pictures

A diverse group of professionals poses together at an event dedicated to accessibility innovation. A banner for "Access to Success" in the background highlights their commitment to supporting startups focused on disability tech and inclusion. The atmosphere is one of unity, collaboration, and dedication to breaking barriers in accessibility. From 2019 to 2024, Access to Success backed 60 start-up founders from five countries.
A diverse group of professionals poses together at an event dedicated to accessibility innovation. A banner for "Access to Success" in the background highlights their commitment to supporting startups focused on disability tech and inclusion. The atmosphere is one of unity, collaboration, and dedication to breaking barriers in accessibility. From 2019 to 2024, Access to Success backed 60 start-up founders from five countries.

Related information

Connections
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Solutions with the same:

Country of Implementation

Canada

Region of Implementation

North America