Call for Grant Applications -AI-Powered Inclusive Communication Challenge
Application Deadline:
14 April 2025
About Organisation
Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council was established in 2018 to advance Qatar’s research, development, and innovation (RDI) ecosystem. It plays a pivotal role in shaping national RDI priorities, bringing together leaders from government, industry, and academia to drive impactful change. In 2019, the Council launched the Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation Strategy 2030, aiming to optimize RDI activities and align them with the country’s overarching goals.
With a commitment to fostering cutting-edge advancements, QRDI Council serves as a platform for collaboration, leveraging national and international expertise to address critical challenges. By creating a robust innovation framework, it seeks to position Qatar as a global leader in RDI. The Council actively supports initiatives that promote technological advancements, knowledge-sharing, and industry partnerships. Through various grants and programs, QRDI encourages innovative solutions that contribute to sustainable development, social progress, and economic diversification.
As part of its vision, QRDI Council continuously seeks to bridge technological gaps and create opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. By providing funding, mentorship, and access to resources, it empowers innovators to develop solutions that have a lasting impact on society, making Qatar a hub for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.
About the Grant
The QRDI Council is offering a grant to support the development of AI-powered accessibility solutions for individuals with communication difficulties, including the Deaf community. Existing technologies fail to fully capture the complexity of sign language, making effective communication a challenge. This grant aims to address these limitations by fostering innovative solutions that enhance accessibility.
The goal is to develop an advanced AI-powered translation system utilizing Large Language Models (LLMs) for real-time language translation. The ideal solution should integrate multiple accessibility tools, including real-time captioning, speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and voice modulation. It should also feature an expert user interface for refining translations and an API for seamless integration across platforms.
This initiative presents an opportunity to contribute to a global cause, enhancing communication for millions worldwide. Participants will work alongside leading experts in AI, language processing, and accessibility, gaining mentorship, access to relevant datasets, and cloud computing support through Microsoft Azure. With up to $100,000 in funding available, this grant provides a significant opportunity for innovators to create scalable and impactful solutions that promote inclusivity and break communication barriers.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to solution providers, researchers, startups, and organizations working in artificial intelligence, language processing, and accessibility technologies. Eligible applicants should have expertise in AI-driven translation, machine learning, and accessibility innovation.
Ideal candidates include technology developers, AI researchers, academic institutions, and non-profits focused on disability inclusion and assistive technologies. Applicants should demonstrate experience in developing AI models, particularly in Large Language Models (LLMs) and natural language processing (NLP). They should also have the capability to integrate AI-powered accessibility tools such as speech-to-text, text-to-speech, and voice modulation systems.
Teams or individuals applying must have a track record of developing and implementing technological solutions that address real-world challenges. Collaboration with industry experts, accessibility advocates, and language specialists will be an added advantage. Organizations with a proven ability to scale their solutions and implement them in real-world applications are highly encouraged to apply. The project should align with the broader goal of enhancing communication for individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in everyday interactions.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants must submit their proposals detailing the proposed AI-powered solution, its technical approach, implementation plan, and expected impact. Applications should highlight the solution’s scalability, feasibility, and potential for real-world adoption.
Application Deadline
The last date to submit applications is April 14th. Late submissions will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
All applications must be submitted before April 14th, ensuring compliance with the grant’s requirements.
Grant Amount
Successful applicants can receive up to $100,000 in funding, along with access to datasets, mentorship, cloud computing support, and expert guidance.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
