1 Million for Digital and Assistive Technology Projects for Disabled People

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley TD has announced funding of over €1 million for digital and assistive technology projects for disabled people.

These digital and assistive technology projects support people with sensory, cognitive, physical, and intellectual disabilities. This includes older people who experience difficulties carrying out everyday functions that were once routine, as well as people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, stroke, cancer, Parkinson’s disease or dementia.

Grants of €75,000–€200,000 are available for each digital and assistive technology project under the next phase of the HSE’s Cooperative Real Engagement for Assistive Technology Enhancement (CREATE) initiative. Applications for funding can be made from today.

Minister Foley said:

“I am delighted to announce over €1 million in funding for new digital and assistive technology projects under the CREATE initiative. These projects can involve the use of walking devices, voice assistant technology, interactive sensory equipment, motion sensors, talking pens and smart home devices. They have had a positive impact on the lives of disabled people. These new projects will be focused on using assistive technology for personal mobility, vision, hearing, communication and accessibility.

I hope this further funding support will improve the health, well-being, participation and inclusion of disabled people taking part in the projects. I am committed to expanding the use of digital and assistive technology, which is something that everyone in society is likely to need during their lifetime, particularly as they age.”

The CREATE initiative is managed by the National Clinical Programme for People with Disability (NCPPD) within the Health Service Executive (HSE).

There have been two existing phases of CREATE. CREATE I received funding of €2 million for 11 projects in 2022. CREATE II received funding of €750,000 in 2023 to support ongoing projects and to advance 9 new projects.

These projects have enhanced disability services and supports for children and adults using disability services, as well as providing support for the staff delivering the services. Assistive Technology has been provided in libraries and education and training platforms. Alternative and Augmentative Communication technology was provided to help people who struggle with speech. Assistive technology clinics were delivered by multidisciplinary teams.

CREATE III is the third iteration of the CREATE initiative and has two main areas of focus

1. Design, Demonstrate and Implement Good Assistive Technology Service Delivery
2. Create Accessible Digital Education, Training and Resource Hubs for all Projects.

For full guidelines and the application form, please visit the Department website:
https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/press-releases/minister-foley-announces-funding-of-over-1-million-for-digital-and-assistive-technology-projects-for-disabled-people/v 

Deadline for applications: 12 noon on 22 September 2025