Drone search team project among tech-grant recipients

Thursday 19 October 2023

The first recipients of grants issued to entrepreneurs for the development of technology to support the island have been announced – with successful projects including the creation of a volunteer-led drone team to aid the emergency services.

An open grant programme – forming part of the Digital Jersey-run Impact Jersey scheme – was launched in the summer, offering applicants the opportunity to be awarded up to £75,000 to develop tech-driven solutions to address one or more of eight "strategic priorities".

Themes included climate change, housing, transport, health, supply-chain resilience and skills, as well as productivity and development of new economic sectors.

The Impact Jersey initiative aims to support the island’s future economy, environmental ambitions and community goals.

Through a series of programmes it will award up to £20 million – funded by the Government of Jersey – over the coming years.

An initial wave of grant recipients, selected by a panel of independent expert judges, has been announced.

The list includes Air Rescue Channel Islands Limited, for a project looking to incorporate a volunteer-led drone team into emergency services activities – including searching for missing people.

An Andium Homes project to install sensors to help reduce residents’ energy bills and evaluate flood risks, as well as an initiative by William Church Consulting to create a "living map" modelling Jersey’s carbon storing capability, are also among the winners.

Pictured: Digital Jersey CEO, Tony Moretta.

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.”

Assistant Economic Development Minister Alex Curtis 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."