Madrid launches AI awards worth €480,000

Madrid has launched a new Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies Awards programme to promote innovation in areas such as AI, big data, the metaverse, blockchain and digital twins.

A total of €480,000 (US$523,557) is available across 12 categories, and the winners will receive €40,000 each.

Ángel Niño, Madrid’s Councillor for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: “In Madrid we reward technological talent and innovative proposals that generate wealth and employment.

“Our objective is to promote the development of specialised projects in fields such as artificial intelligence, big data, the metaverse, blockchain and digital twins.”

He said the funding will support and give visibility to a large number of startups and entrepreneurs “whose work proposes solutions for the future”, and that the investment also reflects the City Council’s commitment to innovation and the technology sector.

The awards are open to entrepreneurs, microenterprises and small businesses, as defined by the European Commission.

Wish list

The submissions will be evaluated for their technical quality, ease of practical implementation, potential in the market, and level of development.

The 12 categories are: sustainability, citizen information, recycling, predictive smart applications, early threat identification, cybersecurity, satellite image processing, real-time digital twins, predictive digital twins, public procurement, health, and rehabilitation.

The city has outlined some specific challenges and solutions it is seeking, including sustainability certification models in areas such as waste management, mobility and green spaces; a chatbot to support the correct disposal of waste; and a robotic system that works in combination with AI and machine learning for the separation of recyclable materials in waste treatment plants. Other items on the wish list include predictive applications for tourism and other sectors; machine learning and natural language tools to support public tender processes; and new solutions for the diagnosis and management of chronic diseases.

Projects have to demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of between TRL 1 and TRL 7.

Applications are open until September 30, 2023.

Last year’s edition of the awards focused on blockchain and advanced technologies.