AT4D Launches $500K Fund for African Assistive Tech Startups

Assistive Technologies for Disability Trust (AT4D), a Kenya-based nonprofit, has partnered with the Judith Neilson Foundation to launch the Momentous Pilot Fund, a $500,000 initiative supporting early-stage African assistive technology startups. The fund targets digital solutions improving mobility, communication, inclusive education, independent living, and digital accessibility for people with disabilities. According to the World Health Organisation, nearly 200 million people in Africa require assistive products, yet only one in ten can access them. The Momentous Fund will provide up to five startups with catalytic investment, technical assistance, venture-building support, and strategic partnerships to scale their solutions. “Early-stage assistive technology innovators across Africa face significant structural barriers to accessing capital,” said Bernard Chiira, AT4D CEO. “This is the first fund on the continent dedicated to investing in emerging assistive technology start-ups at the early stage.” Beyond supporting individual ventures, the fund will pilot a sustainable, Africa-led investment model to scale disability-focused innovation financing across the continent. “Many investors still associate disability innovations with charity and donations,” added investment manager Harry Ochieng. “The Momentous Fund is an opportunity to change that narrative and demonstrate real investment opportunities.” Founded in 2023, AT4D supports startups like Signvrse (AI sign language translation) and Linccell Technologies (mobility devices). The fund opens registration for applicants on [date].

SOURCE: https://techcabal.com/2026/03/12/at4d-launches-fund-to-support-assistive-techology-development/