Arc Tank

Arc Tank 2020 Update

The ArcTank has received over 300 applications from around the world in the past three years. Applications from innovative thought leaders and organizations who challenged the status quo and created new services, supports and dialogue.

Over the past three years, $650,000 has been awarded to seven applicants. The award winners have created systems, programs and products that have provided a legal voice and affirmed the rights of people with disabilities and autism and created programs to reduce the number of traumatic deaths for children with autism. Grants were given to organizations that ensured incoming medical professionals and current first responders had better understanding to how best support a person with unique needs. Technology was funded that directly increases a person’s ability to communicate, to experience new places, to live and travel more independently. Funding also supported pathways for people to create their own future through supporting entrepreneurs or by gaining skills to access employment in the growing technology field.

Crisis drives innovation. This year every business sector had to redesign their services. This is most apparent in the health and human service industry that relied heavily on face-to-face interactions. Each and everyone one of us is utilizing our creative and innovative spirits on a daily basis to ensure services and supports continue.

The ArcTank seeks innovative ideas. The ArcTank has funded innovative ideas that have been piloted and have data to support growth. The question asked was ‘is this the year that the ArcTank will see the most innovative ideas? Or is it just too soon?’ 

After careful thought it was decided that it is too soon to be hosting the 2020 ArcTank competition. The rapidly changing information, changes with state and federal funding and the amount of time, effort and energy put into addressing immediate solutions could impact long-term solutions. The status quo has changed. New obstacles will be identified. 

2020 will be the year of implementing, testing and trying innovative ideas. Next year, should be the year to formalize and implement the most effective ideas – which will be the time for the ArcTank to return and support models that help positively disrupt the status quo.

Continue to follow the Northeast Arc and stay tuned in the Spring of 2021 for announcements on the next ArcTank.

Announcing $250,000 in funding awarded during Arc Tank 3.0

Interactive Media Institute
$45,000

IDEA:
Autism Works