Make the impossible
POSSIBLE
Welcome to BCI Connect
Hi, I’m Alex. My brother Michael and I created BCI Connect, inspired by our brother Nicholas, to raise awareness and funds for Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology and help more kids discover what’s possible.
MISSION STATEMENT
BCI Connect’s mission is to raise awareness and funds to help advance Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology for children with physical disabilities.
We support research, the development of new technology, programs that give children opportunities to experience BCI,
and efforts to bring BCI out of the lab and into homes where kids can use it in their everyday lives.
Our goal is to help make BCI more accessible, giving children greater independence, more opportunities
to participate, and new ways to show the world what they can do.
Let me tell you our story.
My name is Alex. I’m in Grade 11, and a few years ago my brother Michael and I started BCI Connect because of our brother Nicholas.
Michael and Nicholas are twins and were born really premature, at just 25 weeks. They both have cerebral palsy, but Nicholas is much more affected by it. He can’t move anything below his neck, but he can see, hear and talk. He’s also really funny, competitive and loves giving Michael and me a hard time.
Growing up, I never really thought of Nick as different. He was just my brother. Michael and I always included him in whatever we were doing and figured out ways to make things work.
As I got older, though, I started noticing all the things I could do that Nick couldn’t. Things I don't even think about, like picking up my phone, using a controller or playing a video game.
But just because Nick can't move his body doesn't mean he can't control things in other ways.
Nicholas has been using a Brain-Computer Interface, or BCI, since 2017. BCI lets him use signals from his brain to control devices like video games and other technology without using his hands.
One of his favourite things is playing Mario Kart. With BCI, he can actually play on his own and compete against us. And yes, he beats us.
That might not sound like a huge deal. It's just a video game. But for Nick, being able to play without someone else doing it for him is a big deal. And for us, it's pretty cool to compete against our brother, just like we would with anyone else.
Seeing Nick use BCI is what made Michael and me want more people to know about it. So we started BCI Connect.
We want to raise awareness about BCI and raise money to help this technology keep moving forward, whether that's supporting research, helping develop better technology, giving more kids the chance to try BCI, or hopefully one day making it something kids like Nick can use at home as part of their everyday lives.
We have seen what BCI has allowed our brother to do, and we want other kids to have those same opportunities.
Kids like Nick are capable of so much. Sometimes they just need a different way to do it.
That's what BCI Connect is about.
WHAT IS BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACE?
Empowering through
life changing technology
BCI Connect is dedicated to harnessing the power of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology to bring meaningful change to the lives of individuals with neurological disabilities. Our mission is to support the research and development of BCI technologies, providing tools that enable communication, creativity, connection, and play for people who otherwise face barriers. We aim to create a future where technology empowers everyone, regardless of their physical limitations.
Founded with a vision to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and accessibility, BCI Connect collaborates with researchers, developers, and the wider community to fund groundbreaking advancements. Inspired by personal connections and real stories of how BCI can change lives, our team strives to create opportunities for individuals to explore their potential, connect with others, and live enriched lives.
BCI technology is within
reach of every family.
The Calgary Pediatric Brain-Computer Interface Program is committed to making BCI solutions not only innovative but also affordable and accessible. By supporting cost-effective development they ensure that families from all backgrounds can benefit from these tools. Whether it’s enabling a child to communicate for the first time, create art, or play with friends and family, they are focused on delivering powerful technology that fits into real lives and real budgets.
Understanding BCI Technology
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology is changing lives by creating a direct connection between the brain and external devices. This breakthrough allows people to control computers, prosthetics, and other technology—using only their thoughts. For individuals with neurological conditions, BCIs open doors to communication, independence, and new possibilities that once seemed impossible.
How BCIs Work
1. Capturing Brain Signals
Sensors or electrodes pick up brain activity (electrical signals).
2. Processing the Signals
The collected data is analyzed to recognize patterns and translate them into commands.
3. Turning Thoughts into Actions
The processed signals are converted into real-world actions, such as moving a robotic limb, typing on a screen, or steering a wheelchair.
Applications of BCI Technology
1. Medical and Assistive Devices
Helping people with paralysis regain control over their environment.
2. Communication
Giving those with speech impairments a way to express themselves.
3. Rehabilitation
Assisting stroke patients in retraining their brains through neurofeedback.
4. Gaming and Entertainment
Enabling immersive experiences controlled by thought alone.
5. Research and Cognitive Enhancement
Unlocking new insights into brain function and enhancing learning and memory.
The Future of BCI
The future of BCI is full of exciting possibilities. As technology advances, AI integration, improved precision, and increased accessibility will make BCIs more effective and affordable for those who need them most.
At BCI Connect, we’re passionate about pushing the boundaries of this technology and creating a world where everyone has the tools to live more freely.
Want to learn more about brain computer interface?
Brain Computer Interface
Alberta Children’s Hospital
Calgary Pediatric Brain-Computer Interface Program
Cumming School of Medicine
Help send a kid to Club BCI at the
Alberta Children’s Hospital!
Club BCI offer programs for BCI users to engage in a BCI activity together to foster social connections and practice BCI skills in a group setting.
Groups
Groups consist of approximately four kids and are formed based on age, interests, and availability.
Activities
Kids will participate in social activities using BCI. This may include taking turns painting a mural using sphero balls! There will be other activities without BCI too.
Staff
1:1 support for kids to participate in activities will be available from Occupational Therapists, Recreation Therapists, and/or trained Volunteers.
You can make a difference!
Whether you're 6 or 60, you can make a difference—one bracelet, one lemonade, one idea at a time. Raising money to donate to BCI Connect is a fun and powerful way for kids, families, and communities to come together and support life-changing technology for people with neurological disabilities.
Ideas for raising money to donate:
• Host a lemonade stand on a sunny afternoon
• Sell homemade bracelets
• Organize a neighborhood bake sale
• Plan a garage sale
• Start a birthday fundraiser
• Run a read-a-thon
• Host a mini talent show or game night with entry donations
Every small effort adds up to something big. It’s not just about the money—it’s about spreading awareness, inspiring others, and showing that anyone, at any age, can help bring communication and connection to those who need it most.
As the official fundraising body for the Alberta Children's Hospital, all money raised by the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation is re-invested in child health needs in the hospital and across the region. Through the generosity of our community, we can provide funding for family-centred child health programs, specialized life-saving equipment and advanced pediatric research and education at the Alberta Children's Hospital. Learn more about the Foundation, our funding priorities, partners, and our commitments to good governance and transparency.
We’re proud to partner with BCI Connects to help raise funds. All money donated will go directly to research and development for BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) technology or to the BCI4Kids Camp.
Contact
Support BCI Innovation
Thank you for your interest in supporting our cause. Get in touch to learn more about how you can contribute to advancing BCI technology and making a positive impact. Together, we can shape a better future.