05.11.25, LONDON, Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation accelerator for transport, the built environment, cities and local growth, has today announced the opening of applications for the Smarter Transport Systems AI Competition. The competition is delivered by the Catapult in partnership with the Department for Transport (DfT).

Now in its second year, the competition has been designed to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with AI innovations that can make transport smarter. The innovators selected will benefit from up to £14,000 in grant funding and access to expert guidance, as well as networking and showcasing opportunities.

Applications should propose AI solutions that could address one or more of the following challenge areas:

1. Automating Inspection and Predictive Maintenance
   How do we leverage AI to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and timeliness of transport asset inspections and maintenance?
   
2. Optimising Network Operations
   How do we harness AI to dynamically manage and optimise transport networks across all modes - road, rail, maritime, freight, aviation, and active travel?
   
3. Enabling Major Transport Infrastructure Project Efficiencies
   How do we apply AI to improve the planning, delivery, and oversight of large-scale transport infrastructure projects?
   
4. Building Climate Resilience with AI 
   How do we develop AI to strengthen resilience and sustainability into transport systems facing climate change?
   
5. Creating an Inclusive Transport System
   How can AI make transport systems more inclusive for all users, disabled people, older adults, and underserved communities?

The competition consists of three phases. In phase one, up to 25 SMEs will be selected to receive up to £1,000 each to develop use cases over a two-week period. Around ten of these will then be invited to pitch their solution at a Dragon’s Den style event with a panel of experts and senior leaders. Finally, up to three will be chosen to receive a grant of up to £13,000 each to develop a business case over three months.

Prospective applicants have until midday on Friday 21 November to apply.

“We know that AI has the potential to change the face of transport, and can make journeys smoother, faster and more accessible, which is why I am delighted to support this fantastic competition following the publication of our Transport AI Action Plan this summer.
 
“We’ll continue to do all we can to make transport innovative. Not only could this funding help solve some of our most fundamental transport issues, but it will also support British businesses - creating jobs and economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.”

Minister for Roads and Buses, Simon Lightwood

“AI technology has the potential to  make transport more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive, and the DfT’s Transport Artificial Intelligence Action Plan is seizing that opportunity. By supporting transport innovators through this programme, not only are we finding new ways to improve transport systems, but we are also helping businesses in the UK capitalise on the economic opportunity that AI presents.

“If you have an idea that can leverage AI to respond to one of the challenges, I encourage you to apply.”

Sameer Savani, Managing Director for Transport at Connected Places Catapult