BT has launched its Infinity Lab Competition, this year seeking innovations for mobile networks, particularly new communication apps and network efficiency.
The Infinity Lab Competition is in its ninth year. The competition and is open to start-ups from around the world that can take a simple idea and, in the shortest amount of time, turn it into a feasible solution for mobile networks.
First launched in 2013, Waterford-based start-up Sedicii won the competition for its use of technology to protect online sign-in information, and also won the Tech Pioneer 2015 award from the World Economic Forum.
With applicants accepted until 7 August, shortlisted companies will be invited to Wembley Stadium in London on 6 September to present their ideas to judges from BT and EE.
The winners of the competition will be announced at a Dragons’ Den-style panel event on 12 September, after which BT and EE will work with the winning company to evaluate their business and technology, and explore opportunities to work together commercially.
Access to European start-up hubs at stake
Along with mentoring from BT and EE, the winning start-up will receive six months membership to the TechHub entrepreneur community, part of a wider network of start-up hubs across Europe.
The winner will also get the chance to showcase their products at BT’s Infinity Lab in London.
John Petter, BT’s consumer chief executive, said of the competition: “We are reaching out to entrepreneurs around the world, seeking brilliant and simple ideas [that] can help shape future services used by our customers.
“We’re inviting entrepreneurs and start-ups to pitch their products and services to our leadership teams and look forward to working with them to help develop pioneering mobile innovations.”
Mobile antenna image via Shutterstock
