TRIG 2022 seeks innovative ideas for a better transport system
Transport technologies of the future could be brought to life through a new round of government funding, with up to 60 projects expected to be awarded a share of the £1.85 million TRIG 2022 programme to develop early-stage research projects to support innovative ideas to create a better transport system.
The Department for Transport backed Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG), delivered through the Connected Places Catapult, supports future leaders in transport innovation by awarding 100% funding for the development of new technology, with the stated aim of “allowing innovators to either succeed or fail fast”.
The programme also provides a collaborative space for innovators, including academics, SMEs and large businesses to work with DfT’s policy teams.
The TRIG 2022 programme has five targeted funding calls, alongside an open-call for any transport related idea. The five specific areas of focus are:
Maritime decarbonisation
Future of freight
Local transport decarbonisation
Transport resilience to severe weather and flooding
Improving the rail passenger experience
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.”
Since 2014, TRIG has awarded £10.3m for 294 innovation projects. Nicola Yates OBE, Connected Places Catapult, Chief Executive Officer said, “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.”