Smart Ageing Prize

The AAL Forum 2016 will see the finale of the Programme’s first ever Smart Ageing Challenge Prize and the award of a €50,000 top prize for the best Internet of Things innovation designed to empower older people to live the best possible quality of life. The competition was launched in February this year to encourage innovation with internet technology in the ageing space.

More than 200 entries are expected by the closing date of May 13, so competition will be tough and the quality of ideas is expected to be very high. Judges will be looking for solutions that improve connectivity between older people in any aspect of life – at home or at work, with transport and mobility or with any other service older people may want or need. As important as meeting the need of older people with their IoT innovation, entrants must also have a solid business plan in place to take it to market and must also have involved older people in the development and testing of the product or service.

As well as the large cash prize for the winner, the Competition is also designed to help the best entrants to develop their prototypes and business plans. Fifteen of the most promising applications will be chosen as Finalists and these will be invited to a dedicated social innovation mentoring academy in Brussels in July, where they will receive expert coaching and support to develop their ideas.

Following the Academy the finalists will be asked to submit a detailed plan of their idea. From these detailed plans, five applicants will be selected who will have the opportunity to attend the AAL Forum. Of the fifteen Finalists, one winner will be awarded grand prize of €50,000 and the ceremony will take place in front of a packed audience at the final plenary session of the Forum.

The deadline for the first submission is Friday, May 13, 12 noon. Visit the website for details about how to enter.