SBI Foundation and Social Alpha have jointly announced the launch of the challenge, Techtonic: Innovations in Assistive Technology, inviting innovators and entrepreneurs working on products and services that address the difficulties faced by people with disabilities and enable them to lead an empowered life.

The challenge is structured to support early-stage assistive technology startups to accelerate their lab to market journey through comprehensive support that includes access to Rs 15 lakhs for ideating, prototyping, and growth; access to R&D labs for prototyping and infrastructure for scaled-up manufacturing; and access to mentors, incubation facilities, industry players and end-users for product testing and business model validation.

India lacks a vibrant market for disruptive AT solutions. However, an increasing number of entrepreneurs and passionate innovators are trying to develop solutions for people with disabilities.

The challenge focuses on the following areas: Visual Impairment, Developmental Disorders & Chronic Neurological Conditions, Locomotor Disabilities, and Speech & Hearing Disabilities. The program will extend support towards 10 start-ups in accelerating their Lab to Market journey. Out of these 10, the top 4 startups will receive Rs 15 lakhs along with incubation support for 1 year.