CivTech Round 12 applications have now closed and, first of all, a huge thank you to everyone who applied. Every year we are impressed by the range of ideas, expertise and innovation that comes through the process. We know that putting together an application takes time and effort, so we are grateful to everyone who has chosen to be part of this year's round.
Over the coming weeks, applications will be assessed by the CivTech team and Challenge Sponsors. This is a really important part of the process. Behind each Challenge is a public sector organisation looking to tackle a real problem. Our job is to identify the teams that are best placed to help make that happen.
While applicants wait to hear the outcome, there is a lot going on behind the scenes. Our Innovation Delivery Team works closely with Challenge Sponsors to coordinate assessments, support decision-making and make sure every Challenge progresses smoothly through the selection process. It is one of the busiest periods in the CivTech calendar and a huge team effort.
Magda and Scott from the CivTech Innovation Delivery Team.
For the teams that are selected, the next stage is Exploration. Up to three teams per Challenge are invited to take part in this three-week process, receiving £5,000 (plus VAT) to work closely with their Challenge Sponsor and the CivTech team to develop and refine their proposed solution. Throughout the process, teams also take part in a series of workshops designed to support and challenge their thinking. It is a chance to dig deeper into the Challenge, test assumptions and strengthen ideas before moving forward. At the end of Exploration, teams present their refined proposal and one team per Challenge is selected to progress into the CivTech Accelerator.
Exploration Stage teams taking part in a CivTech workshop.
So, with applications now closed, the focus shifts to the next stage of the journey. We have a busy few weeks ahead as applications are reviewed and assessed, and we cannot wait to see which teams make it through to the Exploration Stage.
To everyone who applied, thank you for being part of CivTech Round 12. We wish all applicants the very best of luck and look forward to sharing updates as the programme progresses.