The first program cycle concluded with a 64% success rate, and the program began accepting submissions for the second cycle in January. Judging by the inexpensive, eco-friendly Geocement 3D printing material that was developed by one of the second cycle’s participating companies, I’d say round two was also quite the success. The program is more than a platform to create solutions and opportunities for issues before they have a chance to become problems – it’s a path to meet the current challenges our society is facing in areas like energy, health, infrastructure, and transportation. Over 4,000 applications from companies around the world were received over the first two cycles, and out of the 65 companies that were accepted, 48 signed on with a government partner to continue work on innovative pilot projects.
“Over the past year, we have enjoyed remarkable success in terms of the enthusiasm of participating government entities and the number of partnerships signed with pioneering companies,” said Khalfan Belhoul, the CEO of Dubai Future Accelerators. “This year, we will see new partners come on board to collaborate with global innovators to create advanced working models and future solutions. This will consolidate the UAE’s – and Dubai’s – position as a leading test bed of government support for technologies that tackle the biggest challenges of our time.”
As before, the Dubai Municipality is challenging participants to implement 3D printing technology in 25% of Dubai’s buildings by 2030, and in order to accelerate new aviation opportunities, the Emirates airline is joining the program. The airline is the largest operator of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s in the industry. Its hope for the third cycle is to use autonomous robotics and personalization to transform the airline into a more responsive and sustainable global travel platform. It has three challenges for the Dubai Future Accelerators program:
- Invent a new fleet of autonomous vehicles, using 100% solar or electric energy, tailored to the needs of airport airside operations
- Invent a solution to transform training and learning for the airline’s cabin crew
- Invent a solution to integrate the needs of its passengers across the whole experience chain
The application deadline for the third cycle of the Dubai Future Accelerators program is July 31st, and companies that make the short list will be invited to a Skype interview. The participants will be selected on August 30, and the program will run from October 1st through November 29th. As before, the program is structured into a total of eight stages, such as development, feedback, and agreement drafting, and a series of workshops, cultural activities, and one-on-one office time with mentors will also be held for participants. Discuss in the Dubai Future Accelererators forum at 3DPB.com.