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A new £20m scheme has been launched to allocate grants of up to £75,000 to Jersey-based firms and individuals to help find technology solutions to challenges facing the island, such as how to boost productivity, improve health and encourage sustainable transport.
‘Impact Jersey’ will be run by Digital Jersey, which is now calling on tech professionals to register their interest for the first tranche of funding, launching this summer.
Impact Jersey is the new name for the ‘Technology Accelerator Fund’, which was approved by the States in April 2022 to encourage the use of technology “to support economic, environmental and social priorities”.
The £20m has come from a windfall as a result of JT selling a majority stake in its 'Internet of Things' business in 2021.
Assistant Economic Development Minister Alex Curtis said: “We’re excited to announce the launch of Impact Jersey, a scheme that aims to enable islanders and experts to help find answers and solutions to some of Jersey’s biggest challenges.
“Impact Jersey aims to focus on Government’s strategic priorities, such as helping to improve the health and wellbeing of Jersey’s population, improve sustainable transport options for islanders, and improving the productivity, resiliency, and vibrancy of our economy to name a few.”
Pictured: Assistant Economic Development Minister Alex Curtis.
He added: “I have set a high expectation that Impact Jersey will deliver on value for islanders' money, transparency, and fairness.
“Beyond the specific deliverables from each programme, I hope that Impact Jersey can help develop the culture of digital enablement and delivery within businesses and enhance entrepreneurial and community spirit.
Tony Moretta, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Jersey, said: “We want to support and reward big thinkers and problem solvers to drive positive change for the island and its people.
“We are seeking solutions from as broad a base as possible. This could include – but is not limited to – entrepreneurs, researchers and inventors, students, corporate innovators and social entrepreneurs."
Pictured: Impact Jersey aims to focus on Government’s strategic priorities, such as improving sustainable transport options for islanders.
He explained: “The first open programme is seeking innovative proposals to introduce technology or services that address one or more of Jersey’s strategic priorities.
“We are specifically calling on Jersey’s local problem solvers, innovators and entrepreneurs who understand the island’s unique challenges and are best placed to generate solutions.”
Tech firms and individuals can find out more about Impact Jersey and register their interest for the first ‘open grant programme’ by visiting www.impact.je.
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