In a dynamic display of innovation and commitment to accessibility, the 6th Annual InnovateAble Showcase took center stage on July 26th, commemorating the 34th anniversary of the ADA. Hosted by Travelability, this “shark tank” style event featured groundbreaking assistive technologies designed to break down barriers for travelers with disabilities.
Key Highlights:
- Be My Eyes Wins Judges’ Selection: Be My Eyes, a visionary platform connecting blind and visually impaired individuals in customer call centers and visitor centers with Chat GTP 4 AI visual interpreters, secured the top spot among the judges’ selections. See their website, here.
- 360 Direct Video Triumphs as People’s Choice: Attendees enthusiastically voted 360 Direct Video as their favorite. This immersive video platform allows travel suppliers to communicate with deaf and hard of hearing users in multiple ways fostering inclusivity and expanding horizons for all.
- Hero Door Opener and Glidance Shine: Hero Door Opener, an ingenious adaptive hinge mechanism that automates doors in hotels using a battery operated unit in the door hinge, and Glidance, a smart navigational assistance device also impressed both judges and attendees alike.
Jake Steinman, founder of Travelability, summed up the event: “The InnovateAbile Showcase exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that’s creating a more inclusive world for everyone. These groundbreaking technologies not only enhance travel experiences but also reinforce the spirit of the ADA, a law that has made America the most accessible country in the world.”
Congratulations to all of the InnovateAble finalists. They were chosen from over 100 companies that TravelAbility vetted for the competition.
Finalists:
We Hear You (Hero Door Opener)
Judges’ Selection
- Be My Eyes
- Hero Door Opener
- 360 Direct Video
People’s Choice (attendees)
- 360 Direct Video
- Be My Eyes/Hero Hinge (tie)
- Glidance
Katy Roberts, Portfolio Manager for Racoon Media Group, which manages the seven Abilities Expo events through North America, commented: “As one of the judges, I was hugely impressed by all of the pitches, the professionalism, innovative and pioneering solutions to bring more independence to the disability community. I can’t wait to see how all these companies develop their ideas in the future.”
“This was an extraordinary selection of innovative technologies,” commented Chris Maher, Founder of Samaritan Partners. “We have invested in two of the companies that were featured. Assistive products that have a business-to-business application are very attractive to venture investors and private capital because they don’t require massive investment to reach the end consumers.”
Travelability: Travelability is a trailblazing organization dedicated to making travel accessible for everyone. Through events like the InnovateAbile Showcase, they champion groundbreaking solutions that redefine the boundaries of travel.
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