a-STEP brings together more than 100 members from 35 countries. This interdisciplinary, cross-sector network is dedicated to enhancing the social inclusion and empowerment of people with autism and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through innovative applications of assistive technology. By fostering research collaboration and capacity building, a-STEP is creating pathways toward more inclusive communities worldwide. The a-STEP Cost Action was funded by the European Cooperation in Science and Technology, through the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Programme.

ASSISTID is the largest research and training program in Europe focused on assistive technology for autism and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The program supported 25 international, interdisciplinary researchers and emphasized real-world applications with lasting impact—advancing social inclusion, education, employment, and independent living for people with autism and IDD. The ASSISTID Program was funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND Action, through the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Programme and by the charity RESPECT and the DOCTRID Research Institute.

Profesia Lab is a space for meaningful cooperation between employers, community partners, schools, and HR and career advisors with a common goal: increasing the employment of people with disabilities in competitive labor market. It forms a community which is trying to carry out the inclusive employment in real life. Profesia Lab created a model of internships for individuals with disabilities in the competitive labor market using evidence-based know-how from through collaboration with the STEP Lab, we implemented the Assistive Soft Skills and Employment Training (ASSET) program and educated all relevant stakeholders in Slovakia.

In collaboration with two universities in Hong Kong, the initiative focuses on developing an integrated career and life development system paired with a community-based health initiative to support individuals with disabilities who go through key life transitions, who are vulnerable to poor employment and health outcomes. The initiative aims to improve employability, financial stability, and wellbeing, enabling more resilient and sustainable retirement.