QBE Insurance and Boston-based non-profit organisation Leading Cities have opened applications for the 2025 QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge, a global competition aimed at supporting start-ups working on smart-city solutions that address urban risks, strengthen community resilience, and promote sustainability. Applications close on 30 April 2025.
The challenge includes a US$100,000 grant for one start-up to implement a pilot project with a partner city. Additional awards include a US$25,000 property technology (Proptech) prize, focused on mitigating commercial property risks, and two US$25,000 people’s choice awards.
Now in its seventh year, the initiative connects participating start-ups with municipal leaders and subject matter experts. The top 100 applicants will take part in a six-month Public-Private Partnership Preparedness programme through the Leading Cities Academy, which includes certification, mentorship, investor and client introductions, and media exposure.
“The challenge helps bring innovative solutions to communities by connecting entrepreneurs with a network of leaders, investors, and corporate partners,” said Lauren Hicks, Head of Social Impact at QBE.
Michael Lake, President and CEO of Leading Cities, said the increasing frequency of natural hazards such as floods and fires requires collaboration between start-ups and cities to develop risk mitigation strategies.
The Proptech prize is intended for start-ups offering tools that address commercial property risks, including hazard identification, property damage prevention, and business interruption mitigation. The winner will also receive additional support from QBE.
