https://triblive.com/local/pgh-lab-program-accepting-applications-from-startups-to-partner-with-government-to-test-new-products/
PGH Lab program accepting applications from startups to partner with government to test new products
Pittsburgh is accepting applications from local startups that want to be part of the PGH Lab program, which gives companies a chance to partner with the city and local authorities to test new products in a real-world environment.
This marks the seventh cohort of PGH Lab, a program run by the city’s Department of Innovation and Performance.
The initiative pairs local startups with the city government and local authorities for up to six months. The city said startups get an opportunity to test their products and gain market feedback, while the city and local authorities can use the startups’ technologies and services to try to make government more efficient and sustainable.
Since its establishment in 2016, PGH Lab has partnered with 30 local startups that provided pilot projects ranging from waste management to immigrant inclusion solutions.
In 2020, the city said PGH Lab emphasized technology solutions with a focus on equity, with six of the eight participating companies owned by individuals from underrepresented communities. The companies spent nearly 2,500 hours combined testing their ideas and solutions with the city government and agencies, according to the city.
One company, pathVu, worked with six departments and agencies to conduct a complete sidewalk inventory, including ADA compliance, in Homewood and Downtown.
This year, PGH Lab is again prioritizing entrepreneurs that promote equity.
The city said it is seeking proposals in several different categories. Among them, the city said it is seeking pitches from companies who can help improve communication to make local government more accessible to citizens. Another category revolves around improving operations through collecting and analyzing data, while other goals include helping Pittsburgh become a leader in addressing climate change and the environment as well as internal city processes and operations.
Applications are open until November 1 and can be found online. This year’s cohort will be announced on Dec. 1.
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