Singapore-based startup FingerDance is on the way to revolutionise accessibility for the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities with their FingerDance AI Sign Language large models, offering 24/7 sign language translation services.

This innovation aims to enhance information and service accessibility, providing seamless communication support for those who rely on sign language.

“We are working with the Singapore Association for the Deaf (SADeaf) and the deaf communities during our product development,” FingerDance Co-Founder Gong He shares in an email to e27.

“For example, we invite deaf participants to attend our Singapore Sign Language data collection workshops.”

Operating on a B2B model, FingerDance aims to extend its reach by partnering with more organisations in the future. Their strategy focuses on expanding the deployment of their sign language translation technology across various service points, ensuring that deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals can navigate public spaces and access essential services effortlessly.

Currently, FingerDance is collaborating with partners such as SBS Transit and SADeaf to deploy their solution at the Chinatown MRT station, enabling the deaf community to easily access passenger services.

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Innovating for a difference

FingerDance is one of the seven innovative startups that have emerged from the inaugural cohort of the Technology for Sustainable Social Impact (TS2) accelerator programme, a collaborative initiative launched by NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS), and the Singapore Centre for Social Enterprise, raiSE.

Announced on January 29, TS2 is a 10-week accelerator programme designed to empower tech startups that focus on creating human-centred social impact within Singapore. The programme is geared towards nurturing enterprises that are not only technologically innovative but also deeply committed to addressing pressing social challenges in the community.

How does participating in this programme help FingerDance’s business? Through TS2, FingerDance has received the guidance, resources, and network support necessary to refine and scale its solution, ensuring it can reach a broader audience and have a greater impact.

“TS2 programme provides various support, such as mentor services and weekly lessons. In addition, TS2 is a great platform to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. We learned a lot during this journey,” Gong He says.

The FingerDance team consists of 10 members, including five co-founders. The company was part of Run 8 of the NUS Graduate Research Innovation Programme (GRIP).

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Launched in 2018, GRIP is a year-long venture creation initiative by NUS that supports post-graduate students, researchers, and alumni in transforming their research into successful deep tech startups. Through GRIP, FingerDance received crucial funding and guidance that have been instrumental in nurturing its early-stage venture from research commercialisation to market readiness.

For 2024 and beyond, FingerDance aims to keep on expanding its reach in Singapore.

“We aim to integrate sign language everywhere to benefit the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. We look forward to working with more partners on this smart and inclusive journey,” Gong He closes.

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Image Credit: NUS Enterprise

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