FAQs

Nia Technologies Inc. is a Canadian non-profit social enterprise that develops and deploys innovative technologies in resource-poor countries.

“Nia” means “for good purpose” or “with good intentions” in Swahili. We chose this name because we have a strong commitment to developing technology for a higher purpose. In addition, one of the first children we helped in Uganda spoke Swahili.

Nia Technologies is headquartered is in Toronto, Canada. We operate in resource-poor countries around the world. We’ve conducted clinical studies with our partners in Cambodia, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Nia Technologies Inc. was established in 2015 after Hope and Healing International and their partners became increasingly concerned by the growing shortage of orthopaedic clinicians in resource poor countries. The WHO estimates that there is currently a shortage of 40,000 trained clinicians worldwide.

Our technology enables clinicians to increase the production of high-quality custom prosthetics and orthotics for children with lower limb disabilities. Increased production means more children can have access to the devices they need to walk.

Our technology is currently tailored to children and youth, age 5-25. That’s because children need about 25 mobility devices over their life and they are among the most vulnerable and marginalized groups in society. Providing a mobility device to a child has a great impact on their development and life opportunities.

You can learn about our research and clinical partners here.

You can see a list of our current funders here.

3D printing, or additive printing, is the process of producing a three dimensional object from a digital file using a special printer that lays downs material layer by layer.

3D printed prosthetic and orthotic devices can be made from a variety of materials. The materials we currently use or are testing include polylactic acid and nylon-based plastic filaments. They are cost-effective and safe for patients and the environment.

3D PrintAbility is our start-to-finish toolchain that enables trained clinicians to make custom transtibial prosthetic sockets and AFOs for children and youth, age 5-25. Learn more about 3D PrintAbility.

NiaFit is our proprietary software that enables clinicians to design and rectify 3D models of prosthetic and orthotic devices. Learn more about NiaFit.

We are currently accepting expressions of interest from hospitals or orthopaedic workshops that are interested in participating in our Early Adopter Program. Learn more about what’s provided through the program and the minimum requirements to apply.

There are several ways you can get involved. Get informed about the issue and raise awareness, share and follow us on social media, or subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates.

You can also donate to us through Hope and Healing’s website.

If you would like to discuss a partnership or funding opportunity, we invite you to get in touch with us by sending us a message.

Thank you for your interest! We have several media resources available for download including a backgrounder and photos. Please contact us to request an interview or for more information.