The first ever Centrica Active Ageing Challenge just opened for entries, and is looking for startups with tech solutions that help meet the needs of an ageing society.
Successful applicants will be asked to pitch to a team of industry experts in March. As well as a share of the prize fund of £100,000, winners could also receive the opportunity to access valuable networking and mentorship opportunities that can help startups to grow.
Technology to transform the lives of the over 65s would have a huge impact on people across the UK and Europe. Recent statistics from the Office of National Statistics revealed that nearly a fifth of people in the UK are over 65.
Sam Salisbury, Director at Centrica Innovations, said: “Smart technology has the ability to solve one of society’s biggest challenges – staying active and independent as we age. Centrica brands have already developed home technology that’s made people’s lives more comfortable and convenient, and now we want to build on this and explore how smart tech can positively impact older people.”
He continued: “Research we conducted recently found that many over 60s believe smart technology can improve their lives, but, despite this, they are often overlooked by companies that produce and market this tech. That’s why we’ve launched our Active Ageing Challenge. We’re calling on the UK’s thriving startup community to put themselves forward – and we’re hoping more than 50 of the region’s brightest minds will apply. I can’t wait to meet the minds behind the next big ideas in active ageing tech!”
Centrica is committed to providing support to people and technology that can change the world, and over the next five years has committed to investing £100 million in startups, incubation and accelerator programmes.
Innovators have until 5 February to submit their applications. If successful, they will be asked to pitch their idea to the team of industry experts in March. Learn more about the Active Ageing Challenge and apply now!
Centrica Innovations was created to identify, incubate and accelerate new technologies and innovations for business and residential customers.
Over the past four years, Centrica Innovations has supported over 25 enterprises and committed £9 million of investment to 14 startups. This includes supporting companies passionate about building a more energy efficient future.
Centrica Innovations invests in new technologies and business models which will help create future value and opportunities. Centrica have committed to invest £100 million over the next five years in incubation and acceleration programmes – as well as venturing in startups. As a pioneer in the connected home market, they continue to build a strong IoT capability and business models. This includes leveraging capabilities in the connected home market. Data science, smart grids and smart metering will enable Centrica to become closer to customers in an enhanced partner role.