Transport for Wales (TfW) is inviting tech entrepreneurs and start-ups to come up with ideas to improve the running of its rail franchise.
At the end of TfW's 12-week Lab accelerator programme for innovation, participants will pitch their ideas to key stakeholders and decision makers.
The winning pitch - although more than one project could be taken forward - will be awarded a contract to fully develop their new solution, which will then be rolled out across the Wales and Borders rail network, operated by KeolisAmey.
KeolisAmey - a joint venture between French transport firm Keolis and infrastructure management consultancy Amey - took over as operator of rail services for Wales and the Borders last year from Arriva.
It will also deliver the next phase of the South Wales Metro will electrification of the core Valley and Coryton Lines.
Alistair Gordon, chief executive of Keolis UK, said: “Transport for Wales’ Lab programme will help to showcase the best of Welsh start-up talent while also finding new solutions to improve key aspects of both the physical and digital passenger experience.
It’s all part of our commitment to working with TfW to ensure Wales’ new rail network is truly first-class and underpinned by the latest innovations in technology.
"But the benefits of this programme could also be felt by passengers further afield than Wales. As global leaders in shared mobility, operating public transport networks on behalf of 300 transport authorities and three billion passengers worldwide, developing and adopting innovative ways of improving the passenger experience is key to our success.
“South Wales and Newport are increasingly recognised as UK and global leaders in the development of technology-driven innovation, and this marks an exciting opportunity to further that reputation and add another Welsh tech export to the list.
“I look forward to seeing the outcome of the programme and the benefits it will deliver to local start-ups, Transport for Wales and rail passengers alike.”
Applications for the programme is October 28th.
