A diverse range of projects are set to be the recipients of grants from the first open programme forming part of the Digital Jersey-run Impact Jersey scheme.
Projects to create a ‘living map’ modelling Jersey’s carbon storing capability, integrate drone technology into local emergency services, and install sensors to help reduce residents’ energy bills and evaluate flood risk, are amongst the successful recipients.
The first wave of successful projects, selected following a rigorous assessment process by a panel of independent expert judges, are:
- Air Rescue Channel Islands Limited: Drone Emergency Services
- Andium Homes, supported by IoT CI: Realtime Sensor IoT Project
- William Church Consulting: Jersey’s Journey to Net Zero Carbon Project
More details on the projects can be found here.
The open grant programme was launched in the summer, offering local innovators the opportunity to be awarded up to £75,000 to develop tech-driven solutions to address one or more of eight strategic priorities: climate change, housing, transport, health, supply chain resilience and skills, as well as productivity in existing sectors and development of new economic sectors.
It forms part of the overarching Impact Jersey scheme, which aims to accelerate and strengthen Jersey’s technology ecosystem to support the Island’s future economy, environmental ambitions and community goals. Through a coordinated series of open grant and challenge programmes, Impact Jersey will over the coming years award up to a total of £20 million, funded by the Government of Jersey.
The independent panel of judges for this open programme were Nancy Cruickshank, Andy Stanford-Clark, Joe Dignan, Professor Saeema Ahmed- Kristensen and Professor Alan Brown.
Digital Jersey CEO Tony Moretta said: “I’m delighted to announce the very first Impact Jersey project grants and pleased they span such broad areas that will help to address real issues in our local community.
“I’m now looking forward to seeing these projects get under way and create an impact locally. I’d also like to extend our thanks to our panel of independent judges, whose considerable expertise and experience were critical in ensuring the integrity of this programme.”
Deputy Alex Curtis, Assistant Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, added: “Through Impact Jersey we are reaching out to local entrepreneurs and innovators to give them an opportunity to help solve some of the biggest challenges we face as an island through technology and creative thinking. I’d like to congratulate those who have been successful so far in this first programme, and I look forward to seeing the outcomes from these projects over the coming months.”
Main picture: William Church
