Alma-based InvoTek Inc., along with three clinical partners, received funding from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR).
The 5-year, $5 million project seeks to improve the ability of children and adults to communicate using signs, communication books, speech generating devices, computers, and mobile technologies.
“This grant is further recognition of InvoTek’s leadership in translating clinical outcomes into commercially available technologies that improve the quality of life for people with disabilities,” Steve Stanley, senior manager of the Science and Technology Division of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “And, it reinforces our message that Arkansas firms have global impacts.”
The research partners include Penn State University, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, andOregon Health and Science University, all leaders in the field of augmentative and alternative communications (AAC).
Founded in 1988, InvoTek specializes in creating and applying technology to the needs of people with severe disabilities. It has received $5.4 million in federal research grants since its founding. InvoTek is a founding sponsor of Be Extraordinary, a non-profit organization that helps people with severe disabilities who want to accomplish a life goal.