Global Disability Innovation Hub

About

The Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) is a research and practice centre based at UCL, established to accelerate disability innovation and create a fairer, more inclusive world. It is recognised as the World Health Organisation’s first Collaborating Centre on Assistive Technology, reflecting its global leadership in inclusive innovation.

Since its inception in 2016, GDI Hub has worked in partnership with governments, universities, NGOs and disabled people’s organisations in more than 40 countries. Its work has reached over 64 million people through research, technology, design, and policy initiatives aimed at breaking down barriers and enabling people with disabilities to participate fully in society.

Research and Innovation

The GDI Hub combines academic research, practical innovation, and community collaboration to improve access, equity, and opportunity for people with disabilities. Its interdisciplinary research spans areas such as assistive technology, inclusive design, inclusive cities and digital inclusion.

Flagship initiatives include AT2030, which tests and scales affordable assistive technology in low and middle-income countries, and the Centre for Digital Language Inclusion, which uses artificial intelligence and voice technology to support people with non-standard speech. 

The Hub also leads the Disability, Design and Innovation MSc at UCL, equipping future leaders to design and implement inclusive systems, services and technologies. 

The GDI Hub’s research outputs and policy recommendations inform governments, funders and industry partners on how to embed inclusion into global systems and practices.

Get Involved

GDI Hub collaborates with a global network of partners, funders and researchers to advance disability inclusion and innovation. It offers opportunities for joint research, training, capacity building and knowledge exchange, supporting organisations and individuals working to create inclusive solutions and accessible environments worldwide.