Mayor of London and Microsoft launch Civic Innovation Challenge

By Elly Yates-Roberts on 14 November 2019

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, in the UK, Microsoft and the Social Tech Trust have launched the Civic Innovation Challenge 2019.

The initiative will support technology companies to create solutions to combat some the capital’s biggest challenges such as countering online extremism and delivering more affordable housing.

“We welcome the Civic Innovation Challenge as a way to introduce new technology companies to helping London and the millions of people who live and work here,” said Cindy Rose, CEO of Microsoft UK, at the initiative’s announcement. “Our aim is to help organisations deliver solutions to tackle issues such as social care, crime and pollution, while creating a ‘smarter’ city.”

There are 40 places available on the Civic Innovation Challenge, three of which will be awarded £40,000 each to develop their solutions. Participating organisations will also receive business and product development support, workshops and training sessions.

“The Civic Innovation Challenge is a unique opportunity for tech companies to tackle some of the most pressing problems facing our capital,” said Theo Blackwell, chief digital officer at Greater London Authority, which will work alongside the participants, and the city’s police force and transport authority in the programme. “I would encourage London’s tech talent to put their creativity to the test and help solve these challenges.”