UK smart city launches 5G and IoT accelerator
Sunderland City Council is working with communications infrastructure provider Bai Communications and Sunderland Software City to deliver a six-week programme which will culminate in a showcase event.
Sunderland, one of the UK’s leading smart cities, is partnering to launch a six-week internet of things (IoT) and 5G accelerator programme for start-ups.
The city council is collaborating with global communications infrastructure provider, Bai Communications (Bai), and leading tech sector support organisation, Sunderland Software City.
£10,000 grant funding
Successful applications will form a 10-team cohort that will each receive up to £10,000 grant funding. The teams will take part in a structured series of workshops, mentoring sessions with experts, pitch development and training, as well as benefit from introductions to influential and valuable networking opportunities.
The programme will be delivered by a team of experienced practitioners at Sunderland Software City. CEO Dr David Dunn said: “We are seeking truly innovative start-ups to get involved in this unique opportunity. The accelerator is at no cost to the teams, and unlike many accelerators, no equity will be taken in return for participation, whilst the IP remains in full control of the teams involved.”
“It will provide start-ups with a significant opportunity to participate and contribute to the scaling of the advanced smart city programme”
The programme culminates in a showcase event to demonstrate their progress. Project themes are broad, but a focus on IoT challenges affecting skills and education, manufacturing and smart homes, will be considered favourably.
“We can offer the infrastructure needed to support and accelerate the progress of a group of businesses with this type of expertise,” said Liz St Louis, assistant director smart cities at Sunderland City Council. “The programme underlines Sunderland’s commitment to being a forward-thinking and smart city.”
In October last year, Sunderland entered a 20-year strategic partnership with Bai Communications to design, build and operate next generation digital infrastructure, including a private 5G small cell network. It is accelerating digital transformation in areas such as education, social care, manufacturing and logistics.
Billy D’Arcy, CEO of Bai UK, said the accelerator will build on the strategic partnership with Sunderland City Council to roll out next-generation digital infrastructure.
He added: “It will provide start-ups with a significant opportunity to participate and contribute to the scaling of the advanced smart city programme, helping Sunderland to remain at the forefront of innovation and achieve global competitiveness.”
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