AI and Accessibility Lead the Disability Tech Cohort Remarkable

Remarkable, a technology accelerator for people with disabilities, has announced that it will invite a group of Australian and international startups to its 2024 edition.

The 16-week program includes training, networking and seed funding to help grow startups that help people with disabilities.

According to Remarkable, companies were selected that had a product launch and generated revenue (excluding early-stage medical technology products), had proven business structures that were profit-driven, purpose-driven, and scalable.

The 2024 group includes startups offering a mix of technologies for people with disabilities, including SaaS platforms, mobility aids, artificial intelligence and assistive equipment.

Standout companies include We Hear You, which develops a range of products for people with disabilities, including one that can automate almost any door.

Leantime has developed a project management system that puts people first. It combines artificial intelligence with behavioral science to help people with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism better manage their work.

“Disability technology is an industry full of opportunities and we are proud to partner with some of the best emerging technologies around the world,” said Pete Horsley, Founder of Remarkable SmartCompany.

According to Remarkable, its 2023 cohort has seen significant success after participating in the accelerator, with some going from under 100 customers to over 78,000 and seeing average monthly revenue increase by 4,400%.

Another huge achievement is the increase in jobs – the number of disabled people employed in their teams has increased by over 75%.
Remarkable supports disabled tech startups beyond early stage. Earlier this year, the company announced the Scaler program, which provides investments from seed to Series A.

Not surprisingly, one of the recurring themes in this year’s edition is AI and machine learning, which are being used in startups in independent banking, skills-based hiring, orthopedic care, and more

“Disability technology, like all industries, is being transformed by AI. It will not only help create experiences that are more tailored to the needs and preferences of individuals, but it will also change the speed at which new interventions, prevention and treatments are discovered, as well as how existing solutions are improved,” Horsley said.

“Disability is at the heart of human diversity – it affects every race, age and gender, so when we see solutions that are more adaptive to the needs of individuals, it can only have a positive impact on the future of technology.”

One such startup is Clu, which helps overlooked and underutilized individuals identify their skills and find the right positions. Clu’s technology significantly improves the quality and experience of candidates throughout the recruitment process.

“It’s clear from this 2024 Remarkable cohort that AI is not just about information efficiency, but is a powerful tool for transforming customer experiences across health, disability and aging,” Horsley said.

When it comes to the future of disability technology, Remarkable sees more opportunities than challenges.

And maybe that shouldn’t surprise anyone.

According to the World Health Organization, by 2050, 3.5 billion people will need supportive products.

“This is a growing market opportunity worldwide as more people choose products and services that meet their needs and as the population ages,” Horsley said.

“Remarkable helps connect markets and leaders around the world through our Global Tech Summits, our +N Network, and thought leadership content like our Remarkable Insights Podcast. It’s an exciting time to be in disability tech!”

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