The Zero Project has officially launched its global search for the most innovative solutions advancing the rights of persons with disabilities for the 2027 Zero Project Awards.
This year’s call focuses on three critical pillars: Independent Living, Political Participation, and Assistive Technology.
Organizations from all sectors and countries are invited to submit their practices and policies that successfully remove barriers to inclusion.
Guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the initiative aims to identify and scale solutions that promote self-determination and equal participation.
By highlighting successful models, the Zero Project helps move innovative ideas from local contexts to a global stage.
Funding and benefits
While the Zero Project Awards do not include a financial prize, they offer Awardees immense international visibility and networking opportunities.
Selected innovators are invited to present their work at the Zero Project Conference 2027 at the United Nations Office in Vienna, an event that attracts approximately 1,000 global experts and decision-makers.
Awardees also gain entry into a prestigious global network of over 10,000 experts, fostering cross-sectoral collaboration to drive further impact.
Furthermore, winning solutions are featured in the Zero Project Report and added to a public database, which serves as a vital resource for stakeholders and decision-makers worldwide.
Application requirements and eligibility
The call is open to a wide range of innovations, including screen readers, smart mobility aids, AI-based support systems, and self-advocacy programs.
However, nominated solutions must have already been deployed and demonstrated a clear impact; projects still at the concept stage are not eligible for consideration.
Submissions are rigorously evaluated based on three core criteria: innovation, impact, and scalability.
The Zero Project seeks solutions that differ from existing practices, provide evidence of improving lives, and possess the potential to be replicated or expanded into new geographic regions.
The nomination process must be completed in English via an online form, which requires users to submit all information in one session as it cannot be saved for later editing.
Applicants are encouraged to provide concise, fact-based information and are strongly supported in uploading 3 to 5 photos or a short video showcasing their solution in action.
Deadline
Interested organizations must submit their nominations by June 21, 2026, at 23:59 CEST.
Following an extensive multi-step peer-review and fact-checking process, a shortlist will be announced in August, with the final Awardees officially named on December 3, 2026, to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
To apply, visit The Zero Project call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
