One Year of spokhand: Pioneering AI for Sign Language Accessibility

A few weeks ago, we celebrated the first anniversary of spokhand a nonprofit organization building the world’s largest sign language database and developing AI-driven accessibility tools for the Deaf community worldwide.

A Deaf-Led Team Driving AI Innovation

At the heart of spokhand is our team 90% Deaf, with expertise spanning AI development, data engineering, and accessibility design.

This unique structure ensures that the technology we create is built by and for the Deaf community, making it both culturally relevant and impactful.

Over the past year, we have:

• Built and tested multiple AI prototypes for sign language recognition and generation

• Developed an internal MVP soon to be released publicly

• Established scalable data collection processes for sign language datasets

Reaching Millions with a Unique Communication Strategy

In just 12 months, spokhand has reached 20,000 followers and over 10 million video views proof that sign language technology can inspire global audiences.

Our forward-thinking communication approach has positioned spokhand as a leading voice in Deaf accessibility innovation.

➡️ Discover our community impact stories here

Building a Strong Nonprofit Leadership Network

This year, we also created a Board of Directors composed of experts in nonprofit governance, ethics, and accessibility technology.

Their guidance ensures that spokhand’s growth remains aligned with its mission: making sign language visible, accessible, and integrated into the digital world.

What’s Next: Deaflympics 2025 and Beyond

The coming year will move faster and have greater impact. Key milestones include:

• Launching our first public-facing MVP showcasing AI for sign language translation

• Hosting interviews, expert talks, and conferences on AI for social impact

• Representing spokhand at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, a global celebration of Deaf sports and culture

• Strengthening partnerships, such as with Archimed, for logistics, networks, and funding

• Expanding our media collaborations, including with Media Pi

➡️ Learn more about our Deaflympics 2025 initiatives here

A Call for Support: Philanthropy Meets Technology

We are preparing a global fundraising campaign targeting philanthropists, corporate partners, and public donors.

Supporters will have access to personalized sign language avatars a creative, visual way to champion accessibility in daily communication, from email signatures to social media profiles.

➡️ Join our mission and donate today: https://spokhand.org/support

Year one was just the beginning. Year two will be 100x faster more innovation, more partnerships, and more global reach.

spokhand: Powered by Deaf Data. Driven by Inclusion.