EIT Urban Mobility is proud to announce that its portfolio company .Lumen has won the CTA Foundation Pitch Competition for Accessibility at CES 2026, one of the world’s most influential technology events. The Romanian deep-tech startup was recognised for its innovative AI-powered smart glasses that assist blind and visually impaired people in navigating urban environments safely, hands-free, and independently.
The CTA Foundation Pitch Competition for Accessibility showcases cutting-edge technologies that improve accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. The $10,000 prize recognises .Lumen’s potential to transform urban mobility for millions of visually impaired individuals worldwide.
.Lumen’s smart glasses function as a digital guide dog, using advanced AI algorithms to detect obstacles, recognise faces, read text, and provide real-time audio navigation assistance. The technology empowers visually impaired users to move through cities with greater confidence and autonomy, addressing a critical mobility challenge in urban environments.
“I was born into a family where everyone except me had a disability. Years later, the technology we’re building is recognised here, on the CES stage, as the most innovative in its field. Feels like a full circle,” said Cornel Amariei, Founder & CEO of .Lumen.
Investing in mobility for all
This recognition comes shortly after EIT Urban Mobility’s recent investment in the company. Furthermore, it reinforces the commitment to supporting innovations that make urban mobility more inclusive and accessible for all citizens. “No one should be left behind in Europe’s urban transition. By supporting technologies like .Lumen’s AI glasses, EIT Urban Mobility is working to create cities where all residents can participate fully in urban life. ” said Jan Hauser, Investment Portfolio Manager at EIT Urban Mobility.
.Lumen’s success at CES 2026 highlights the growing importance of assistive technologies in shaping the future of urban mobility. Meanwhile, as cities worldwide work to become more inclusive and sustainable, innovations like .Lumen’s smart glasses demonstrate how technology can break down barriers and create opportunities for all urban residents.
EIT Urban Mobility continues to support impact-driven companies tackling mobility challenges through its Funding Support to Startups Open Call.
