#TechnoAid #Welfare Devices #Assistive Tech

The 2025 Needs-Seed Matching Exchange: Bridging Gaps in Assistive Technology

In December 2025, a significant gathering will take place in Tokyo, spotlighting the crucial intersection of demand and technical innovation in assistive devices for individuals with disabilities. The 2025 Needs-Seed Matching Exchange, organized by the TechnoAid Association, is set to take place from December 18 to 20. This event aims to connect the voices of the disabled and their supporters with companies and researchers who create assistive technologies. The goal? To promote practical development and dissemination of these vital tools that enhance independence for disabled individuals.

Event Background

The support equipment for the disabled must echo the voices of its users. This exchange serves as a pivotal platform to blend the 'needs' of individuals with disabilities and their supporters with the 'seeds' of technology from companies and researchers. Past events have proven effective, with last year's Tokyo conference witnessing participation from 77 exhibiting companies and 9 advocacy groups, attracting approximately 570 attendees over the three days. This illustrative meeting facilitated the refinement of prototype equipment through feedback and direct interactions, showcasing the practical triumphs stemming from these collaborations. Many participants expressed that they had taken significant steps forward in the development process.

Goals of the 2025 Exchange

The primary objective of the 2025 Needs-Seed Matching Exchange is to encourage the development of assistive devices by fostering interactions between stakeholders. Participants will have the opportunity to experience prototypes firsthand, engage in discussions, and provide feedback. This immersive experience aims to solidify requirements and preferences from the very early stages of product development, ensuring that end users' insights are at the forefront of design considerations.

What to Expect at the Exchange

At the event, a unique opportunity arises where individuals with disabilities and their advocates (the 'needs' side) interact directly with innovators and researchers (the 'seeds' side). This setting allows for an invaluable exchange of ideas wherein stakeholders can collaboratively assess and improve prototype devices. In addition to hands-on experiences with sample devices, the event will feature keynote speeches and various related activities aimed to enrich the dialogue around assistive technologies.

Event Details

• - Date: December 18 (Thursday) to December 20 (Saturday), 2025
• - Times: December 18: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, December 19: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, December 20: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• - Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center, Hamamatsucho Annex

1-7-1 Kaigan, Minato City, Tokyo 105-7501

• - Access: A brief 5-minute walk from JR Hamamatsucho Station (North Exit) or Tokyo Monorail Hamamatsucho Station.

For wheelchair users, utilizing the