If you have a solution that can help tackle traffic congestion, mental health challenges, safety for vulnerable populations, or environmental concerns, we want to hear from you.
Thames Freeport and the Seoul Digital Foundation (SDF) are working in collaboration to scale smart city solutions in new markets. As part of this collaboration, Seoul Special City is inviting UK innovators in smart cities to trial their solutions in Korea following a renewed agreement between the two entities, underscoring their commitment to innovation and sustainable urban development.
21st Century City in Korea – What’s on Offer
The programme is designed to help UK startups to expand to Korea by supporting them through market entry in Seoul. The programme begins in late January 2025 and provides:
- Exclusive Access: Participate in a ‘Living Lab’ to tackle real-world challenges in Korea.
- Strategic Planning: Receive tailored guidance from Korean accelerators to develop a market entry plan.
- Market Entry Guidance: Gain expert advice on tax, HR, and legal matters for doing business in Korea.
- Immersive Experiences: Enjoy guided tours of key Seoul districts, including Gangnam and Dongdaemun.
- Find Customers: Get support in finding your first customers in Korea.
Programme Timeline
- January 13th: Online programme begins. Companies will gain market entry guidance.
- February 3rd: Beginning of a 3 week period where companies can spend 2 weeks in Seoul with support to meet customers and plan a pilot of your solution.
- February 24th: Remote support to set up solution pilots in Seoul.
- April 30th: programme support ends.
Application Timeline
- November 2024: applications open.
- December 2024: applications close.
- mid-December 2024: successful applicants informed.
- January 2025: programme begins.
Importance of Smart Cities
The future is smart, and cities worldwide are embracing technology to enhance urban life. Thames Freeport presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the lives of Londoners and the boroughs to the east. At the forefront of this movement, Thames Freeport, in collaboration with the SDF is tackling urban challenges with innovative solutions.
Urban areas face significant challenges, including traffic congestion, pollution, and mental health issues. Smart city initiatives can address these problems by leveraging technology to create interconnected systems that improve residents’ quality of life. For instance, smart traffic management systems can reduce congestion and emissions, while digital platforms can offer mental health support and resources to prevent depression.
Thames Freeport and SDF’s Role
Thames Freeport and the SDF have committed to supporting international businesses developing smart city solutions to grow in the UK and Korea. This builds on a successful pilot program that brought six Korean smart cities solution providers to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham earlier this year, with Thames Freeport, the Connected Places Catapult and other partners providing support services to accelerate access and opportunities to the UK market.
Insights from the Korean Pilot Delegation:
“Seeing the market firsthand and understanding the level of engagement required makes me believe we can make a difference in London,” said a member of the Korean delegation. “With public trials, we can localise our solutions to fit the city, society, and people perfectly. Everyone benefits—us, the city, and most importantly, the people.”
Why Thames Freeport is a Hub of Innovation Strategy
Thames Freeport is more than just a trade hub; it’s a beacon of innovation. By collaborating with the Seoul Digital Foundation, Thames Freeport is enhancing its role as a leader in smart city development. This initiative aligns with Thames Freeport’s mission to create a sustainable, tech-driven urban environment that sets new standards in efficiency and quality of life.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of something transformative. Join us in Korea and help shape the future of our cities.
Applications close December 2024.