Start-ups driving inclusion: apply to the Handilab accelerator with Orange

Looking for solutions to real-world problems

As a long-standing supporter of Handilab, Orange shares a common belief: innovation has the greatest impact when it improves everyday life. That commitment also reflects the ambitions of the Trust the future strategic plan, particularly around customer proximity and growth through innovation.

We’re looking for projects focused on natural and seamless communication, personalized customer experiences, digital independence, simpler user journeys, support for everyday activities, aging, and solutions for caregivers.

Projects might, for example, make services easier to access through voice, gestures, text, images, or touch. They could simplify authentication, adapt interfaces to individual needs, centralize accessibility settings, or support people living independently at home.

As part of this call for projects, particular attention will be given to solutions that improve the accessibility of Orange’s digital products and services, including telecom and network services.

Who can apply?

The call is open to start-ups based in France that are already established and developing innovative solutions. Teams should have the structure and resources needed to move their project forward and make the most of the support offered through the program.

Projects should be sufficiently advanced to demonstrate a working prototype or be ready for testing in real-world conditions. Solutions may draw on technologies such as AI, IoT, geolocation, multimodal interfaces, speech and image recognition, or other connected digital technologies..

Who are the solutions designed for?

Projects should primarily benefit people living with disabilities, whether sensory, physical, cognitive, psychological, or intellectual, as well as neurodivergent individuals, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, and related conditions. The call is also aimed at older adults who face challenges accessing or using digital services, or who are experiencing a loss of independence.

Handilab, accelerating inclusive innovation

Located in Saint-Denis, France, Handilab is Europe’s first accelerator dedicated to disability and loss of independence. It brings together research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in a collaborative environment designed to connect start-ups, companies, researchers, and associations. With incubation spaces, coworking facilities, an innovation hub, testing labs, and a showroom, Handilab provides a practical environment where projects can grow and scale. .

Tailored support from Orange 

Selected start-ups will receive dedicated support designed to accelerate their development. Handilab offers personalized coaching, workshops focused on healthcare, digital accessibility, and growth, access to investors, office space, and use of its facilities, including the UseLab, showroom, auditorium, and video production studio.

Selected teams will also have opportunities to connect with Orange experts in accessibility and digital services, and to test their solutions with Orange teams and customers. This support builds on a long-standing commitment. For more than 20 years, Orange has been working to promote inclusion through accessible products and services, accessible websites and mobile apps, research into disability and accessibility, and a wide range of training, support, and awareness initiatives.