EMPOWER 2024: Transforming the Future of Assistive Technology
The Kerala Medical Technology Consortium (KMTC) proudly participated in EMPOWER 2024, a prestigious event hosted by the National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH) at Karimanal, Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram, from October 17 to 19. This flagship conference brought together innovators, researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers committed to advancing Assistive Technology (AT).

Under the theme “Assistive Technology: Linking Minds, Bridging Worlds,” the conference showcased cutting-edge developments in AT through an engaging lineup of workshops, product exhibits, panel discussions, and networking sessions. It provided a dynamic platform to exchange ideas, shape policy frameworks, and foster collaborations among global and local stakeholders dedicated to inclusivity.

At its exhibition booth, KMTC showcased Kerala’s immense potential as a Global Assistive Technology Hub, highlighting the state’s conducive ecosystem for startups and manufacturers to thrive.

A major highlight of EMPOWER 2024 was the participation of over 40 exhibitors for the first time, representing startups, manufacturers, NGOs, research institutions, and academic organizations. KMTC played a key role in facilitating this wide-ranging participation.

One of the standout moments was the Startups & Investment-focused Pitch Day, organized by the ATTVARAN Incubator & Accelerator in collaboration with the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP). The session attracted over 30 startups, angel investors, venture capitalists, and funding agencies. In a significant achievement, NCPEDP awarded grants totaling INR 80 Lakhs to 16 promising startups, recognizing their potential to drive impactful innovation.

KMTC extended its gratitude to partners such as the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub), Malabar Angel Network (MAN), Kerala Angel Network (KAN), and TiE Kerala. Their invaluable insights, unwavering support, and active involvement greatly enriched the event. Special thanks were also conveyed to all participants, sponsors, and collaborators for their contributions to the conference’s success.

From the groundbreaking pitches at ATTVARAN to thought-provoking discussions connecting researchers, policymakers, and investors, EMPOWER 2024 exemplified the transformative power of collaboration in revolutionizing the assistive technology ecosystem.