Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG), powered by Connected Places Catapult, supports future leaders in transport innovation by awarding 100% funding for the development of new technology, allowing innovators to either succeed or fail fast.
As many as 60 projects could be awarded a share of the £1.85 million fund to develop early stage research projects designed to support innovative ideas to create a better transport system. The programme aims not only to foster innovation to improve transport in the UK, but also to generate growth in the sector.
The TRIG 2022 programme will have five targeted funding calls, alongside an ‘open-call’, considering any transport related idea. Specific areas of focus include:
- maritime decarbonisation
- future of freight
- local transport decarbonisation
- transport resilience to severe weather and flooding
- improving the rail passenger experience
Previous winners of the TRIG programme include, a trial using a drone in remote areas to help emergency services find missing people; a project exploring 3D technology to help visually impaired people use public transport; and the development of magnetic technology to improve reliability of rail services in rain and snow.
Speaking about the competition, Transport and Decarbonisation Minister, Jesse Norman said, “AI rescue drones, magnetic train tech, and sensors to help visually impaired people are just some of the cutting-edge transport projects this programme has already funded.”
“We’re determined to support path-breaking R&D across the UK.”
“This new round of funding is designed to find the next top tech projects that will improve transport for millions across the UK.”
“By aiming at emerging start-ups and small businesses we can ensure we build a tech base for the future.”
Nicola Yates OBE, Connected Places Catapult, Chief Executive Officer added, “The UK’s innovation ecosystem is adept at developing solutions to complex problems.”
“Government-backed projects like TRIG feed the early stages of the UK transport innovation pipeline and help us identify and nurture viable solutions to some of our biggest challenges.”
“The TRIG 2022 call is focused on finding the next wave of state-of-the-art transport solutions, enabling the creative innovators to propel us along the road to a greener future whilst driving growth.”
