E-Fabrik, innovative and solidarity solutions for people with disabilities
E-Fabrik, innovative and solidarity solutions for people with disabilities
Hàbitat3
An innovative initiative that brings together young people and individuals with disabilities in a creative community with the aim of jointly conceiving and manufacturing tangible solutions to address the challenges faced by people with disabilities in their daily lives.
Through the E-Fabrik program, which is free for all participants, young people and individuals with disabilities learn to use digital fabrication tools, such as 3D printers and laser cutters, and become familiar with the spaces where they can find them. The goal is for them to acquire new skills in the use of emerging digital technologies. Using the FabLab concept, pairs or teams are formed consisting of young people and individuals with disabilities who work together to find solutions to everyday problems and create practical solutions to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Participants receive a budget of approximately €150 to develop and produce their specific solution.
The project unfolds through courses, educational programs of 20 half-days, and a 5-month vocational training course. In all of them, active solidarity among project participants is encouraged, allowing them to reclaim technology and use it for specific and meaningful purposes.
On the other hand, the program actively works to connect spaces and platforms of technological and digital creativity with structures dedicated to young people and individuals with disabilities. Thus, E-Fabrik not only offers the opportunity to create concrete solutions but also seeks to create bonds and partnerships with local structures.
Characteristics of innovation
Localization
France
Partners / Funders
Fondation Groupe RATP, Thales Solidarity, European Union, Région Île de France, Paris Fabrik, In Seine-Saint-Denis, Fondation Singer-Polignac, Programa P’INS, Fondation AFNIC, EFJ, Grande Ecole du Numérique, Fondation Orange, Fondation de France, AG2R La Mondiale, Fondation free, Creu Roja francesa, Ville de Paris, Essone le Département
Genesis
The E-FABRIK initiative was launched by the Association Traces and emerged as a result of collaboration between two associations in Ile-de-France. It came to light in 2015 with a clear purpose: to reclaim digital tools for the creation and design of everyday objects that would be useful for people with disabilities. Since then, more than 60 projects have been created, all aimed at improving the lives and autonomy of people with disabilities through creativity, technology, and collaboration.
Level of implementation
The E-FABRIK initiative, located in Île-de-France, has 1,200 beneficiaries—individuals who have directly experienced the benefits and solutions resulting from this collaborative initiative. A total of 160 prototypes have been developed and produced, representing a range of practical and creative solutions.
The project has expanded to various other regions in France, surpassing its initial boundaries. Through this expansion, a large number of individuals have actively engaged and received training in the design and use of digital tools for creating meaningful objects. Thus, the collaborative efforts among partner associations have generated a significant impact.
Bank of innovations
Casal TV, virtual social centre for older people through interactive television
Dinder Club, a dedicated dating & social-plans app for people with intellectual disabilities
Aquí la Sole, campaign against youth loneliness
Journeys App, guiding children safely through the Barnahus process
Ithaca Laundry, Mobile laundry services and social reintegration for people experiencing homelessness
