Awards open for innovation in disability support

Entries are now open for the EASPD Innovation Awards 2026, celebrating innovation across organisations supporting people with a disability.

The European Association of Service providers for Persons with Disabilities (EASPD) is the leading voice of disability services across Europe. Representing over 20,000 services in 50 different countries, they promote human rights and equal opportunities for people with disabilities through effective and high-quality support.

The EASPD Innovation Awards 2026, now in their sixth year, aim to highlight the remarkable work of organisations striving to innovate and take new approaches to promote full participation and inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.

In 2026 the awards will focus on organisational development in support services in view of building capacity for person-centred support.

Innovations may include:

• HR resource management: strategies for effective recruitment, retention, staff training, well-being, and developing inclusive workplace cultures.
• Leadership and change management: Exploring ways to strengthen transparent and inclusive management, and developing systems that assure service quality in line with the Quality of Life model and set clear frameworks for effective delivery and managing organisational change in line with the  United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
• Capacity building for the digital and green transition: equipping service providers with the skills and tools to integrate digital solutions, promoting sustainable practices and preparedness that respond to environmental challenges.
• Financial management and planning: strengthening organisational resilience through effective financial planning and management, ensuring budgets remain adaptable and flexible to deliver person-centred services, while also exploring new avenues of funding and building sustainable financial models.
• Communication, partnerships and marketing: Exploring strategies for cross-sector collaboration and engagement with public authorities and strengthening the visibility and outreach of service providers through effective communication and marketing approaches that demonstrate social impact and build trust with stakeholders, funders, and families.

Innovation Award winners will be invited to participate at the EASPD Conference in Porto, Portugal on 14 and 15 May 2026. The call is open to all organisations (public, private and social economy). It's not required to be an EASPD member to enter the awards.

For more information and how to apply visit the EASPD website.

Applications close on 1 February 2026 at 23:59 (CET time).

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