TFW x Media Cymru Lab

Overview

Transport for Wales (TfW) and Media Cymru are joining forces to launch an exciting new accelerator programme, designed to support Welsh businesses and entrepreneurs in developing cutting-edge innovations for the transport sector.

The 10-week programme will provide expert-led training, delivered by the Lab by TfW team and PDR – a world-leading design consultancy and applied research facility to help start-ups turn ideas into scalable, market-ready solutions. Participants will have the unique opportunity to test and deploy their solutions directly within Transport for Wales, with a focus on solving key industry challenges.

Why should I apply?

Participants will benefit from:

• Access to funding of up to £30K (TfW) and £50K (Media Cymru)
• Specialist R&D training to refine and develop their ideas
• Expert mentorship and industry support
• The opportunity to deploy their innovation with Transport for Wales 

Scope

Media Cymru is seeking applicants to tackle the following media-specific challenge areas (must be based in Wales):

• Supporting tourism via the transport network
• Strengthening the use of the Welsh language across the network
• Creating mixed-media experiences to improve commuter journeys
• Promoting the brand and/or offering using new forms of media
• Attracting people to use the network via new media.

Transport for Wales is seeking applicants to tackle the following transport-specific challenge areas:

Revenue Generation and Cost Efficiency

• Identifying new revenue opportunities
• Designing cost-effective solutions
• Leveraging AI to enhance operations

Modal Shift and Engagement

• Encouraging more people to use sustainable transport
• Developing an integrated, sustainable transport system

Operational Excellence

• Improving rail and bus performance
• Enhancing safety for passengers and staff
• Strengthening climate resilience

Eligibility criteria

This Lab by Transport for Wales is open to creative businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs with innovative ideas.

Key Dates

• Challenge Launch – Thursday 27 February
• Challenge Close – Wednesday 2 April at 12:00 BST
• Shortlisting – Wednesday 2  April – Friday 4th April
• Pitch Week & Selection – w/c Monday 7th April
• Supplier Communication – w/c Monday 14th April
• Programme Start – w/c Monday 28th April
• Demo Day – w/c Monday 30th June

How to apply

Applications are now live via TfW Lab’s website.