£100,000 prize fund available for UK tech start-ups that can help the elderly

UK entrepreneurs and tech start-ups are being given the chance to win a slice of a £100,000 prize fund, designed to support the development of technology that will help people to thrive in older age.

The first ever Centrica Active Ageing Challenge is looking for UK start-ups with tech solutions that help meet the needs of an ageing society.

Now open for entry, start-ups have until 5 February 2018 to submit their applications. If successful, they will be asked to pitch their idea to the team of industry experts in March 2018.

As well as a share of the prize fund, winners may also receive the opportunity to access “valuable networking and mentorship opportunities”.

Recent statistics from the Office of National Statistics revealed that 18% 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.

“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 start-up 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!”

For more information on the Active Ageing Challenge, or to apply, click here.