The QBE Foundation, in partnership with Leading Cities, a global Smart City non-profit organization, has launched a challenge for start-ups and entrepreneurs to create smart-city solutions.
This is the fifth year of the challenge, which is designed to help tackle risk, equity, and sustainability issues in urban areas and communities.
There is a total prize pool of $200,000 available across three main categories – including two new categories this year for ‘Resilient Buildings’ and ‘Sustainable Farms’:
- Smart Cities Track
- Champion: $100,000 prize
- Peoples choice award East: $25,000 prize
- People’s choice award West: $25,000
- Resilient Buildings Track – $25,000
- Sustainable Small Farms Track – $25,000
Last year, UK-based Automedi, who specialise in circular plastics micro economy, won the City Solution of the Year Award and accompanying USD$150,000 prize. Australian business Stormseal, received USD$25,000 in funding for their polyethylene film which heat-shrinks to securely wrap damaged rooves or structures.
Applications for the 2023 challenge close 30 April 2023. More details can be found at the AcceliCITY website.
“The Challenge is just one way the QBE Foundation is supporting and encouraging impactful initiatives in our communities, and we look forward to seeing the innovative solutions that come from this year’s entrants.”
Chris Esson – CFO, QBE Australia Pacific & Co-Chair, QBE Foundation
