QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge

Leading Cities and QBE North America has partnered to launch the QBE AcceliCITY Resilience Challenge to offer startups from around the world to compete for $125,000 in cash prizes. AcceliCITY reduces the risk and cost of innovation for cities, corporations and startups alike. AcceliCITY connects cities with globally sourced Smart City solutions that have been vetted, verified and validated. With more than 500 applications again this year, from 43 countries, Leading Cities is able to create transformational change in cities while advancing the world’s Smart City ecosystem.

Selected semi-finalists will participate in a web-based curriculum hosted by international business, civic and academic leaders. Selected finalists will be invited to a Smart City Boot Camp in Boston, USA consisting of workshops tailored to the opportunities and challenges in the business-to-government space. The week culminates with a Pitch Day in New York City at QBE North America Headquarters to showcase these innovative solutions to potential and future clients, partners, investors, and mentors.

How Smart City Startups Benefit

Funding

Applicants will compete for up to $125,000 in cash prizes. The AcceliCITY Champion will receive a $100,000 prize generously donated by QBE North America. In addition, a City Resiliency prize of $25,000 will be given to the startup that best addresses the resilience challenges made evident by the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Zero percent (0%) equity is required to participate in AcceliCITY.

Mentorship

Leading Cities leverages its global network of Smart City leaders in business, academia, and government to provide invaluable advice, insights, and opportunities to both Semi-finalists and Finalists. Mentorship opportunities vary from webinars to workshops and may include one-on-one meetings during the Smart City Boot Camp in Boston.

Investor Network

AcceliCITY leverages Leading Cities’ partnerships, including a network of more than 700 investors, representing almost 100 investment firms. Collectively, these firms invest billions of dollars annually in startups around the world.

Global Network

Leading Cities is a network of municipalities, city leaders, academic institutions, businesses and community leaders around the world. The AcceliCITY program provides critical insights, access, and opportunities for Smart City startups seeking projects and clients globally.

Alumni Opportunities

As a “graduate” of the AcceliCITY program, Smart City startups will have continued opportunities to build on their experience and secure the funding, clients, and partnerships needed for long-term success. Active Alumni will continue to benefit from the ongoing support of AcceliCITY, Leading Cities and its partners.

AcceliCITY Education Program

AcceliCITY programming is provided by global Smart City experts and is specifically tailored each year to meet the needs and interests of the current cohort. Sample programming includes: