Doha, June 04 (QNA) - Mada Assistive Technology Center has launched the Mada Innovation Award 2026, aimed at encouraging the development of innovative Arabic-language solutions in assistive technology and digital accessibility to empower persons with disabilities and senior citizens and enhance their quality of life.

The award is funded by Social and Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM) as part of a partnership focused on supporting sustainable community initiatives and fostering technological innovation that benefits all segments of society.

Speaking at a press conference, Mada's Vice Chairman Amani Al Tamimi said the 2026 edition reflects Mada's strategic commitment to promoting innovation in digital accessibility and assistive technology, while enhancing access to education, employment, services, and full participation for persons with disabilities and older adults.

She noted that the award has established itself as a global platform bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and developers, helping transform promising ideas into practical and scalable solutions.

Al Tamimi stressed that the goal extends beyond recognizing innovation to increasing the availability of accessible products and services in the market and ensuring tangible social impact.

The 2026 edition places particular emphasis on Arabic-language innovations, recognizing the importance of Arabic in ensuring equitable access to knowledge, services, and opportunities.

She described the development of Arabic and localized accessibility solutions as a strategic priority that addresses a significant gap in regional markets.

According to Mada, the award encourages innovators, startups, and developers worldwide to submit practical solutions that support digital accessibility and assistive technology principles.

Director of Programs at Daam Fund Hassan Yousef Al Obaidli said the fund is committed to supporting initiatives that promote technological innovation and digital inclusion, emphasizing that technology is a key pillar in building a more inclusive and sustainable society.

Meanwhile, Head of ICT Accessibility Innovation and Research Section at Mada Center Dr. Ashraf Othman said the award continues to support innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and students in transforming ideas into practical solutions that enhance digital accessibility and assistive technology across the Arab world.

He revealed that the total value of grants offered through the award reaches QAR 600,000, with winners in the three categories receiving funding to further develop and expand their solutions. Applications are open until June 20, while the awards ceremony is scheduled to take place between December 2026 and January 2027.

The award features three main categories covering different stages of innovation maturity: Emerging Innovations, focused on advanced AI-based solutions with measurable impact; Promising Innovations, aimed at accelerating mid-stage innovations into practical applications; and Startup Innovations, designed to support new ideas and solutions in digital accessibility and assistive technology. (QNA)