Applications Now Open for the 2025 QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge
QBE Insurance and Leading Cities seek innovative solutions for stronger communities.
QBE Insurance has announced that the application period for the 2025 QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge is officially underway. This unique opportunity invites entrepreneurs with cutting-edge ideas that harness smart-city technologies to apply by the end of April. The focus is on elevating community resilience, urban risk mitigation, social equity, and sustainability.
The QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge acts as a bridge between daring entrepreneurs and local communities globally, aiming to foster solutions that tackle pressing challenges. A highlight of this initiative is the grand prize, which amounts to $100,000 allocated for a city pilot project. Moreover, participants can vie for a $25,000 property technology (Proptech) prize if they meet eligibility requirements, alongside two people's choice awards worth $25,000 each. Additionally, the top 100 entrepreneurs will receive a six-month training session through Leading Cities Academy, which encompasses Public-Private Partnership Preparedness certification.
Chris Castaldo, Chief Financial Officer at QBE North America and Executive Sponsor of QBE AcceliCITY, emphasized the program's role in empowering startups committed to enhancing urban resilience. "Now in its seventh year, the QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge continues its mission to empower startups dedicated to enhancing resilience in urban environments. This challenge provides entrepreneurs with direct access to a global network of leaders, investors, and corporate partners, facilitating the deployment of their solutions where they are needed most," he stated.
Last year’s grand prize went to Gravity Water, recognized as the City Solution of the Year for its innovative rainwater harvesting technology. This advancement not only boosts water security but also fortifies climate resilience in underserved communities. Gravity Water was chosen from a formidable field of over 740 entrepreneurs hailing from 70 countries.
Michael Lake, President and CEO of Leading Cities, highlighted the urgency of innovation in today's environment, stating, "Floods, fires, and extreme weather are prompting cities to confront crises on a global scale, necessitating bold actions. Innovation is not an option; it is crucial to establish social, economic, and structural resilience worldwide. By collaborating, visionary entrepreneurs and civic leaders can implement transformative solutions to ensure communities not only survive but thrive."
In addition to the primary grand prize of $100,000, challenge participants can also enter for the Proptech prize. This specific category encourages property-technology innovations that address losses at the intersection of commercial property insurance and sustainability. Eligible solutions aim to identify, reduce risks, minimize property damage, or mitigate the repercussions of business interruptions. The winner of the Proptech prize will receive $25,000, plus tailored support from QBE.
To apply or gather more details about the QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge, interested candidates can visit the official accelicity website. The application window remains open until the end of April.
About QBE North America
QBE North America serves as a worldwide leader in the insurance industry, providing tailored solutions to help clients manage unique risks, allowing them to focus on future growth. With its headquarters in Sydney, Australia, QBE operates in 26 nations, maintaining a prominent presence in every major insurance market. The North America division, based in New York, facilitates business primarily through its subsidiary insurance companies.
About Leading Cities
Leading Cities is a nonprofit organization driven by the mission to cultivate resilient and sustainable communities through innovative collaborations. By linking startups with governmental entities, corporations, and investors, Leading Cities accelerates the implementation of solutions designed to enhance urban resilience globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge?
The QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge is an initiative designed to connect entrepreneurs with innovative ideas focused on urban resilience, allowing them to apply for funding and mentorship.
Who can apply for the challenge?
Entrepreneurs from around the world with smart-city solutions that promote sustainability, risk mitigation, and social equity are encouraged to apply.
What are the prizes for winners?
The challenge offers a grand prize of $100,000, along with additional awards including a Proptech prize worth $25,000 and two people's choice awards worth $25,000 each.
How long is the application period?
The application period is open now and will close at the end of April.
What support do participants receive?
The top 100 entrepreneurs will receive six months of training through Leading Cities Academy, including mentorship and networking opportunities.
