The Techno-Aids Association, a public interest foundation based in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, dedicated to promoting research, development, information dissemination, and qualification training for assistive devices, will host the 'Needs-Seeds Matching Forum 2026' in Tokyo (December 17–18, 2026).

Additionally, an online exchange will be conducted via the 'Web Exchange Platform' on the Techno-Aids Association website from October 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027.

Background of the 'Needs-Seeds Matching Forum 2026'

Assistive devices that support the independence of people with disabilities require development that reflects user feedback. This forum connects the 'needs' of people with disabilities and caregivers with the 'seeds (technologies)' of companies and researchers, promoting the development and dissemination of practical assistive devices. It supports product development rooted in real-world challenges through prototype testing, feedback sessions, and user evaluations.

At last year's (2025) Tokyo venue, 86 companies and 9 user groups participated, attracting approximately 939 visitors over three days. Prototype refinement advanced through trial use and discussions, and many practical outcomes emerged, including connections with potential user testers. Participants commented, 'We were able to take the first step toward development.'

Watch a video recap of last year's forum!

Purpose of the Forum

The forum aims to promote the development of practical assistive devices by connecting the 'needs' of people with disabilities and caregivers with the 'seeds (technologies)' of companies and researchers. On-site experiences with prototypes, feedback exchanges, and user evaluations will support product development that incorporates real user voices from the early stages.

Forum Content

A valuable opportunity for users and caregivers (needs side) and companies and researchers (seeds side) to gather around prototype assistive devices, try them out, and directly exchange opinions between end-users and developers.

Keynote speeches and related events are also planned.

＜Tokyo Venue＞

Dates: December 17 (Thu), 2026, 10:00–17:00

December 18 (Fri), 2026, 10:00–16:00

Venue: Taito Public Industrial Trade Center, Taito-ku, Tokyo (5th & 6th Floor Exhibition Halls)

2-6-5 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0033

Access: 5-minute walk from 'Asakusa' Station (Ginza Line / Tobu Skytree Line) / Directly in front of 'Nitenmon' bus stop (Toei Bus)

8-minute walk from 'Asakusa' Station (Toei Asakusa Line) / 9-minute walk from 'Asakusa' Station (Tsukuba Express)

https://www.sanbo.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/taito/access/

Exhibition Overview

Event Name: Needs-Seeds Matching Forum 2026 for Assistive Devices Supporting Independence of People with Disabilities

Format: In-person (Tokyo) and online

Admission: Free ※ However, exhibitors are responsible for parking and loading/unloading costs.

Eligibility: Companies and organizations with products, technologies, or services related to assistive devices for people with disabilities, who have completed pre-registration and passed review.

Exhibition Guidelines: syuttenyoukou2026.pdf

Application Method: Apply via the dedicated form below.

https://www1.techno-aids.or.jp/robot/maker/index.php?fmd=155

Information Dissemination via SNS

Latest updates and introductions of exhibited devices will be shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Please follow and subscribe!

https://x.com/techno_aids

Organizer Overview

Organization: Techno-Aids Association (Public Interest Foundation)

Representative: President Koji Miura

Address: Central Plaza 4F, 1-1 Kaguragawa, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0823

Established: March 16, 1987 (Foundation approval by Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare No. 220)

Business Activities:

- Promotion of assistive devices

- Hearing aid-related initiatives

- Administration of national certification exams for prosthetists and orthotists

Association URL: https://www.techno-aids.or.jp/

【Inquiries】

Planning Department, Techno-Aids Association

Contact: Kagawa, Sato, Takeda, Goto

TEL: 03-3266-6883

Email: [email protected]

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Event