A global and free platform for creating and sharing assistive technologies

TOM Global connects engineers and caregivers to develop assistive tech. Operating in 35+ countries, it offers solutions 99% cheaper, with 62 campuses innovating in assistive devices and distributed manufacturing.

TOM Global, a project of the U.S.-based non-profit Reut USA, is a global platform that unites engineers, designers, caregivers and persons with disabilities to solve specific problems, focusing on assistive devices. TOM’s product development encourages open-innovation, making solutions affordable, accessible, and in the public domain. Distributed manufacturing in universities, vocational schools, and companies enables student involvement. TOM operates in over 35 countries with 62  university campuses, offering solutions 80-99 per cent cheaper than market alternatives.

Problems Targeted

TOM Global addresses the global lack of affordable and accessible assistive technology solutions for individuals with disabilities, which are often neglected.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

TOM Global, a project of Reut USA, a U.S.-based non-profit supporting innovation, is a collaborative platform connecting ‘Makers’ (engineers, designers, caregivers) with ‘Need Knowers’ (individuals with disabilities) to co-develop assistive devices. TOM’s solutions cover areas such as communication, mobility, daily living, sports, and music, utilizing local manufacturing methods, often based on 3D printing. Its online portfolio hosts over 1,000 open-source solutions, allowing users to browse, download, and produce products at home, in makerspaces, or within TOM communities, following step-by-step assembly guides for customization. TOM leverages universities and vocational schools, providing access to 3D printers and makerspaces for distributed manufacturing. Students and faculty participate, integrating TOM projects into their academic work. Since its inception, TOM has reached over 35 countries, including 62 campuses. In 2024, the TOM Global Innovation Challenge engaged 400 participants from 20 countries, generating 120 new projects. Additionally, 81 TOM Fellows from 57 campuses across 10 countries participated in the University Fellowship Program. TOM solutions are 80 to 99 per cent cheaper than market alternatives, offering accessible, affordable, and public-domain products worldwide.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

In 2023–2024 government funding, primarily from USAID and other US Government agencies, accounted for about 15 per cent of the total budget. TOM is also working on incorporating a fee-for-service model for hospitals, municipalities, and corporations. TOM’s model is designed for global scale, supported by the TOM Platform, TOM Playbook, and TOM Process. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

Pictures

In 2024, TOM´s innovation platform operated in over 35 countries with 62 campuses.

In 2024, TOM´s innovation platform operated in over 35 countries with 62 campuses.

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