Following the successful launch of the awards in 2008, we are pleased to inform you that the ACCESS-IT initiative is now open for a second year.

The ACCESS-IT Awards are encouraging nominations of activities that promote a better quality of life for people with disabilities and the elderly, through the use of Information Technology (IT).

This year, we anticipate even more nominations than in 2008. Last year’s Finalists and Winners have exploited fruitfully their award with the support of the ACCESS-IT team as a great marketing and PR opportunity. However, the most important benefit is that a wide range of people with disabilities and elderly and their communities (carers, family, rehabilitation experts, SEN professionals, AT experts, etc) from all around Europe learn about the finalists and how they can use the products and services.

This year, we have launched four special awards:
1. ACCESS-IT@Home: This award will recognise an ICT based project, product or service that advances independent living for people with disabilities or elderly.
2. ACCESS-IT @Work: This award will recognise an ICT based project, product or service that facilitates people with a disability to work independently.
3. ACCESS-IT@Learning: This award will recognise an ICT based project, product or service that facilitates people with a disability or the elderly to get educated in an affordable, accessible, usable and efficient manner.
4. ACCESS-IT@Web2.0: This award will recognise a project, product or service that advances accessibility on web 2.0.

In order to manage efficiently the number of nominations anticipated, ACCESS-IT 2009 nominations will be submitted online only. However, to help you to draft your application, you can also download the nomination form. But, submission must be completed via the online submission form.

The form is short with a limitation in the number of words, so you need to be concise. The selection process will be based on four award criteria that will assess relevance, impact, affordability, openness, and its validation level. Please note that the shortlisted nominations may be contacted for further information and clarification.

The submission deadline for the nomination is 25st August 2009. For more info, please access the ACCESS-IT website, www.access-it-events.org or contact the ACCESS-IT organisation team at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it