Miami-Dade Innovation Authority (MDIA), a non-profit that works to strengthen the relationship between local government and technology companies, has launched its second Public Innovation Challenge.
MDIA is seeking proposals from both local and global technology companies that offer new and creative solutions to improve the airport experience for both passengers and staff across several specific focus areas. In collaboration with Miami International Airport (MIA) and Miami-Dade County, MDIA will select at least three early-to-growth stage technology start-ups and provide $100,000 in funding to each company to support testing of solutions at the airport, before being rolled out at airports across the world. The deadline to submit proposals is Friday, January 19, 2024.
“MDIA’s second public innovation challenge is not just about transforming travel; it's about elevating MIA, one of the ten most transited airports in the country and the largest gateway to our community. By prioritising the airport experience, we pave the way for improved connectivity and equitable accessibility, fostering a more vibrant and interconnected community. A well-equipped, sustainable airport opens doors to opportunities, enriching the lives of every resident and visitor,” said Leigh-Ann A Buchanan, president and CEO of MDIA.
MIA is building upon existing initiatives with the Public Innovation Challenge, among them myMIAccess, an award-winning dedicated online platform connecting passengers with accessibility services and amenities.
The challenge seeks solutions in three categories: accessibility, navigation and sustainability.
In addition to the six-figure investments, selected companies will participate in a product testing programme directly with MIA. MDIA will oversee each testing process and will work closely with the portfolio companies to publish a report on the outcomes and results, as well as helping publicise the report and key findings.
MIA director and CEO Ralph Cutié said: “The MIA team is thrilled to partner with MDIA on the Public Innovation Challenge. By tapping into the creativity of the global technology community, we aim to enhance accessibility, convenience, and sustainability at our airport to better serve our growing number of passengers. Through an open innovation format allowing anyone to submit ideas, we look forward to piloting cutting-edge solutions that make travel efficient and inclusive for our diverse travellers. Most importantly, we aspire to create an airport environment championing sustainability across operations.”
Launched in 2023 with seed funding from Miami-Dade County, The John S and James L Knight Foundation, Citadel founder and CEO Ken Griffin, MDIA was founded with equal private, public, and philanthropic funding totalling $9m. With annual plans to launch three public challenges and distribute more than $1m in funding, it aims to create a replicable blueprint for civic innovation that can be modelled by other cities and municipalities around the world to drive improvements in the quality of life for their residents.
Image: Miami International Airport
