Stations of The Future – Advancing the Rail Solutions of the Tomorrow

Connected Places Catapult, in collaboration with Network Rail, is hosting a half-day event at our London headquarters where we discuss the development, trialling and commercialisation of innovative rail solutions.

The focus of this event is to facilitate conversations amongst decision-makers across the rail ecosystem on how we can progress innovations from trials towards commercialisation and adoption. By bringing together key stakeholders across the rail industry, we aim to discuss the key challenges that promising technological solutions have in achieving successful implementation within the UK rail network and consider what could be done to remove some of these barriers going forward.

The event will connect Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) with influential industry stakeholders, fostering collaboration between businesses, government representatives, Network Rail and the wider rail sector.
 
We will be building on insights from the Station Innovation Zone, a unique Innovation programme delivered by Connected Places Catapult in partnership with Network Rail and funded by Innovate UK. The programme has so far allowed 6 innovators to be able to trial solutions at Bristol Temple Meads Station. This event will provide attendees with the opportunity to engage with these innovators, network with industry leaders, and help shape the future of UK rail stations.
 
The event is specifically aimed at discussing a number of trial outputs and what key stakeholders would advise their next steps in their path to Implementation should be. The names of the SMEs as well as some details on what they will be showcasing will be published ahead of the event.

What to Expect

• Showcasing rail innovation in action – Meet SIZ innovators and explore their pioneering solutions improving safety, accessibility, and sustainability, from panels that capture carbon to security training games that motivate staff to keep stations secure.
• Funding and commercialisation roadmap – Navigate the challenges of securing investment, engaging key stakeholders across government, industry and academia, and overcoming barriers to industry adoption.
• Collaboration and networking– Connect with industry leaders, SMEs, and government decision-makers to discuss opportunities for partnerships, funding, and further development.
  

Engaging with the Entire Rail Ecosystem 

We are keen to engage with all areas of the rail ecosystem so would highly value your attendance to ensure a strong range of stakeholders are represented. 
 
Whether you're an industry-leader sharing insights, a government representative exploring SME needs and funding, or a regulator clarifying procurement and industry challenges, this event provides a valuable platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Please apply to attend and we will get back to you shortly if you have secured a spot! If you have any questions please contact anna.kerr@cp.catapult.org.uk 

A full agenda will be published in the coming weeks. We hope to see you there!