DFI Welcomes €1m Investment in Assistive Technology

December 18 2025, 11:55am

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We welcome the announcement by Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, Norma Foley TD, of over €1 million in funding for digital and assistive technology, AT projects.

The funding, delivered through the HSE’s CREATE III, Cooperative Real Engagement for Assistive Technology Enhancement initiative, is designed to target unmet needs and support people with disabilities to participate fully in work, education, leisure, and community life.

Inclusion through CHAT

We are delighted to confirm that we have been successful in securing funding under this initiative.

Through FreedomTech, and in partnership with Enable Ireland, DFI has been awarded €125,000 for the project: “Empowering Inclusion: Strengthening Ireland's Assistive Technology Ecosystem through CHAT, Community Hub for Assistive Technology.”

This funding will allow us to build upon the vital work of the CHAT network, ensuring that user experiences and expert knowledge remain central to the development of Assistive Technology in Ireland.

A win for the disability sector

Today’s announcement is a significant vote of confidence in the disability sector’s ability to innovate. We are proud to see many DFI member organisations among the nine successful projects.

This investment will support a diverse range of initiatives, from accessible information standards to microprocessor knees and digital supports for early childhood development.

We extend our congratulations to our colleagues and members who received funding, including:

  • Inclusion Ireland, in partnership with Brothers of Charity Services Ireland and St. Michael’s House.

  • St John of God Community Services.

  • The Rehab Group.

  • St. Michael’s House, in partnership with the HSE National Disability Quality Improvement Team.

  • The National Rehabilitation Hospital.

  • HSE Community Healthcare West Children’s Disability Network Team, CDNT.

  • The Anne Sullivan Centre.

DFI looks forward to working as part of this CREATE Collective to drive digital equity and independent living for people with disabilities across Ireland.