The first ever Centrica Active Ageing Challenge has opened for entries and is looking for Liverpool city region start-ups with tech solutions that help meet the needs of an ageing society

Specialist tech and digital entrepreneurs in Merseyside are being the given the opportunity to grace a slice of a £100,000 fund set up to back the development of technology to help elderly people.

The first ever Centrica Active Ageing Challenge has opened for entries and is looking for local start-ups with tech solutions that help meet the needs of an ageing society.

Successful applicants will be asked to pitch to a team of industry experts in March. As well as a share of the prize fund, winners could also receive the opportunity to access valuable networking and mentorship opportunities that can help start-ups to grow.

Sam Salisbury, director at Centrica Innovations, said: “Smart technology has the ability to solve one of society’s biggest challenges – staying active and independent as we age.

“Centrica brands have already developed home technology that’s made people’s lives more comfortable and convenient, and now we want to build on this and explore how smart tech can positively impact older people.

“Research we conducted recently found that many over 60s believe smart technology can improve their lives, but, despite this, they are often overlooked by companies that produce and market this tech.

“We’re calling on Merseyside’s thriving start-up community to put themselves forward – and we’re hoping more than 50 of the region’s brightest minds will apply.”

Local innovators have until Monday, February 5, to submit their applications. If successful, they will be asked to pitch their idea to the team of industry experts in March.

For more information on the Active Ageing Challenge, or to apply, click here.