The Zero Project is a non-profit based in Vienna, Austria, which focuses on researching and sharing innovative solutions that support the rights of people with disabilities globally.

In 2009, the Essl Foundation began researching how to measure the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), which was ratified by Austria in 2008.

[4] Zero Project researches and selects innovative solutions from around the world that successfully uphold the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Every year, Zero Project selects approximately 75 Awardees, with solutions demonstrating clear excellence in the research parameters of innovation, impact, and scalability.

Rotating on a 4-year cycle, the research process and Awardee selection focuses on the following 4 topics: Since 2020, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) is also covered every year.

[5][6] The Awardees are invited to the annual conference at the United Nations Office in Vienna, Austria, to present their solutions to an audience of policymakers, governmental figures, practitioners and experts.

ZeroCon incorporates good practices in conference accessibility,[10] including such support as induction loops for hearing, tactile flooring, International Sign, large-print agendas, and volunteer assistance.