LIFToff ACCESSIBILITY CHALLENGE
Companies selected for proof of concept
ABOUT THIS CHALLENGE
We vetted startups who can address the following challenge: We believe individuals with disabilities, their loved ones, and caregivers want easy-to-set-up and use tech and adaptive, real-time communication/notifications to stay connected, safe, and informed. We want to work together to bring solutions for a more connected, empathetic, intuitive world to market.
WHY THIS CHALLENGE IS IMPORTANT
At Comcast NBCUniversal, we’re committed to creating enriching experiences for all customers.
According to the Pew Research Center, Americans with disabilities are nearly three times as likely never to go online, and 20% are less likely to own a computer, smartphone, or tablet. That gap in access doesn’t reflect a lack of ability but a lack of a solution.
Increased life expectancy and expectations around aging-in-place present unique challenges for those living in the home, as well as the over 40M3 American caregivers who support them.
For some, life without Internet in normal times is isolating; during this pandemic it could be life-threatening. Today it provides an opportunity to connect to family and friends, enhance our entertainment, shop for groceries and other essentials without leaving our homes, search for the latest health information, and engage in a telehealth experience.
Although broadband adoption has increased among those 65+ there is still a significant gap. Over half of those 65+ have a broadband connection at home, and 67 percent use the internet. While these numbers have increased slightly, there is still a considerable gap in access and adoption among seniors4.
We believe when you make a product more inclusive you create a better experience for everyone.
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About Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs
Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs, part of Startup Engagement at Comcast NBCUniversal, gives talented entrepreneurs access to Comcast NBCUniversal’s renowned network of partners, brands and mentors to foster rapid breakthroughs in connectivity, media and entertainment. Startup Engagement at Comcast NBCUniversal has entrepreneurial programs across the country, including three accelerators in Philadelphia and Atlanta, and offers educational resources and programming for companies at all stages of the startup journey. Our teams canvas the world for revolutionary startup founders and early-stage companies in connectivity, media, entertainment, and sports that can help enhance the products and services we provide. Visit ComcastNBCULIFT.com to learn more.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company with three primary businesses: Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, and Sky. Comcast Cable is one of the United States’ largest high-speed internet, video, and phone providers to residential customers under the Xfinity brand, and also provides these services to businesses. It also provides wireless and security and automation services to residential customers under the Xfinity brand. NBCUniversal is global and operates news, entertainment and sports cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, television production operations, television station groups, Universal Pictures, and Universal Parks and Resorts. Sky is one of Europe’s leading media and entertainment companies, connecting customers to a broad range of video content through its pay television services. It also provides communications services, including residential high-speed internet, phone, and wireless services. Sky operates the Sky News broadcast network and sports and entertainment networks, produces original content, and has exclusive content rights. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.