Tikkun Olam Makers Opens New York Innovation Center — Bringing 3D Printed Assistive Tech to the Big Apple

Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM), the nonprofit organization that connects 3D printing enthusiasts with people with disabilities who need custom assistive devices, has opened a new innovation center in New York City.

A Hub for Open Source Assistive Technology

The new facility at 17 West 60th Street in Manhattan serves as a community hub where makers, designers, and people with disabilities can collaborate on custom 3D printed solutions. Founded in 2014, TOM has become a global leader in connecting the maker community with individuals who need personalized assistive technology.

The organization operates on a simple but powerful premise: people with disabilities know their own needs better than anyone else. TOM brings them together with makers who can design and 3D print custom solutions.

How TOM Works

Through TOM's platform, anyone can submit a request for an assistive device. Volunteer makers then work with the requester to design and print custom solutions — everything from modified utensils to adaptive controllers, prosthetic parts, and accessibility tools.

The New York center marks a significant expansion for TOM, which has operations globally including a major hub in Israel. The NYC location will serve as both a maker space and community center for the growing demand for 3D printed assistive technology in the United States.

Why This Matters

Traditional assistive technology can be prohibitively expensive and often fails to meet individual needs. 3D printing allows for rapid, affordable customization — a game-changer for the disability community.

The opening of this innovation center represents the growing recognition of 3D printing's potential to democratize access to personalized Assistive Technology (AT). As the technology becomes more accessible, organizations like TOM are leading the charge in showing how it can transform lives.