Lauren Lee | September 30, 2025 - Atlanta, GA

For immediate release

The Georgia Tech Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI), in collaboration with the Center for Advanced Communications Policy (CACP) is proud to announce the launch of Assistive-Tech.net, home of the Assistive Technology Network (AT Network)—a moderated social media platform designed to increase access to information about assistive technology (AT). AT Network is supported by a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Despite the amazing success of statewide programs under the Assistive Technology Act, such as CIDI's very own Tools for Life program, only a fraction of the estimated 42.7 million Americans with disabilities currently benefit from those services. Assistive-Tech.net aims to close this gap by offering a centralized, user-friendly hub for information.

“AT Network has been designed with usability and accessibility in mind, as well as ease of use and convenience,” says Nathan Moon, AT Network PI. 

Users can engage through text, photo, and video, with both real-time and asynchronous interaction supported. This ensures a welcoming environment for individuals with a wide range of physical, sensory, and intellectual disabilities, as well as users of all ages and tech experience levels.

“With the AT Network, we are trying to provide a place where people can go to get more information about products before they are purchased,” says Karen Milchus, Senior Research Engineer at CIDI. “People can ask questions about the technology, search for different product options, and share user tips for maximizing the performance of the technology.”

By enabling user-generated reviews and encouraging community discussions, the platform removes some barriers to engagement, especially for those in rural, tribal, or frontier communities, to make informed decisions about AT that suit their unique environments and goals.

Unlike traditional resources that categorize AT by disability type, the AT Network organizes content by life activities—such as domestic tasks, mobility, transportation, and employment—making it more intuitive and relevant for users, especially those who may not identify as having a disability but are experiencing changing functional abilities.

By connecting people with disabilities to the tools, knowledge, and community they need to succeed, the AT Network is helping to ensure that assistive technology is available to all who need it. 

Are you a person with a disability that uses AT? The AT Network is looking for reviews for the products you use!

Do you manufacture or sell AT? Please contact the AT Network to list your products on this dynamic new platform. Scroll to the bottom of the page and use the "Contact Us" form. 

The site was developed with funding from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under NIDILRR Award No. 90DPGE0015. CIDI also wishes to acknowledge the involvement of the Center for Advanced Communications Policy (CACP) at Georgia Tech.