News

2018 Accessibility Innovation Showcase

This year, 35 Ontario-based companies will be invited to exhibit their innovative assistive devices and technologies on the Discovery show floor. This will build broader awareness of the companies that exist in this niche market, provide exposure to potential private investors, and engage the entire innovation ecosystem.

Successful applicants will receive a complimentary 10’ x 10’ booth, two full conference passes and will have their travel costs covered (if outside the GTA). This exclusive opportunity gives the companies access to experts, industry, government funders, investors, engaging keynote speakers, fascinating panel discussions, networking opportunities, an awards luncheon and an opportunity for face-to-face meetings with sector experts.

Further, the Accessibility Tech Pitch Competition will provide a platform for five of the showcase companies to pitch during Discovery for a $20,000 award to assist with further development of their business.

Companies interested in this exciting opportunity are required to submit an online application form and for Tech Pitch Competition applicants, a two-minute video – no later than March 9, 2018 at 12:00 pm EST.

PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT

We ask you to forward the content of the attached email, including application instructions, to relevant companies within your network. If your organization is active on social media, we would also appreciate online support and have included the following ‘tweet ready’ posts for your convenience:

  • Working on an assistive tech innovation? Apply to showcase at #ocediscovery and pitch for $20K #OntarioAIS bit.ly/2ns5ZAl
  • #ocediscovery is offering an Accessibility Innovation Showcase and a $20K Tech Pitch Competition April 30/May 1. bit.ly/2ns5ZAl #OntarioAIS
  • Exhibit and pitch at #ocediscovery’s #OntarioAIS. Apply now to compete for a $20K award to further develop your assistive tech innovation. bit.ly/2ns5ZAl

BACKGROUND

  • In 2005, the Government of Ontario created the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), which sets out a clear goal and timeframe to make the province accessible by 2025. Through this act, public, private and non-profit organizations across Ontario have been working together to improve the lives of people with disabilities.
  • The inaugural Accessibility Innovation Showcase and Tech Pitch Competition were held in August 2015.
  • Medical technology company, MyndTec Inc. was the recipient of the 2017 Tech Pitch Competition award. Past recipients of the Tech Pitch Competition award include social enterprise Legworks and wearable tech company iMerciv.
  • Hosted by Ontario Centres of Excellence, Discovery is Canada’s largest innovation and commercialization conference, bringing together key players from industry, academia, government and the investment community – as well as entrepreneurs and students –  to pursue collaboration opportunities. Discovery 2017 attracted close to 3,600 attendees, including an international delegation from China and delegates from Israel, India, the UK and the United States. Discovery showcases leading-edge technologies, best practices and research from sectors such as health, manufacturing, digital media and cleantech, including energy, environment and water.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For more information on the Accessibility Innovation Showcase or Tech Pitch competition, please contact:

Olivia Hall
Event Project Coordinator, Discovery Conference
(416) 861-1092 ext. 1109
[email protected]