Future Mobility – Accelerate2Move: Driving Sustainable Urban Mobility

Future Mobility – Accelerate2Move (A2M) is a dynamic accelerator program dedicated to fostering innovation in sustainable urban mobility. Launched by EIT Urban Mobility, A2M aims to identify and empower startups and scale-ups that are developing cutting-edge solutions using advanced technologies. The program's mission is to accelerate the growth of these companies, enabling them to contribute significantly to a greener and more efficient urban future.

Mission and Values

At its core, A2M is driven by the values of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. The program seeks to support companies that leverage technologies such as AI, Blockchain, 5G, V2X, and the Internet of Things to address pressing urban mobility challenges. A strong emphasis is placed on supporting European innovators, particularly those from the RIS region, to boost their innovation and market potential. The program also actively encourages applications from women-founded startups, promoting diversity within the mobility tech ecosystem.

Program Structure and Timeline

The Accelerate2Move program spans six months, offering a meticulously crafted acceleration experience. Participants benefit from 80 hours of online mentoring and engage in 12 thematic workshops designed to enhance their business acumen and technical skills. A key highlight is a five-day face-to-face bootcamp held in Latvia, with all associated costs fully covered for participants. This intensive bootcamp provides invaluable in-person networking and learning opportunities. Throughout the program, startups have the chance to test their solutions in real-world testbeds and pilot cities, gaining critical feedback and validation. Each supported startup also receives a microgrant of €2,500 to aid their development.

Mentorship and Network

A2M boasts an extensive network of over 200 experts, ensuring that participating startups receive tailored mentoring from the most suitable professionals. This rich mentorship pool provides guidance on various aspects of startup growth, from technical development to market entry strategies. Beyond individual mentoring, the program facilitates networking with leading industry partners, opening doors to potential collaborations and investment opportunities. The program's strength lies in its widespread network of partners and investors, as well as its geographic coverage, providing access to new markets, particularly in the Baltics and Eastern Europe.

What Makes It Unique

What sets Accelerate2Move apart is its focus on advanced technologies within sustainable urban mobility, coupled with a strong emphasis on regional development and inclusivity. The program's team, representing three EU coastal countries (Croatia, Slovenia, and Latvia), offers unique insights and opportunities for startups developing solutions in coastal, maritime, and water mobility. The fully covered bootcamp, the microgrant, and the direct recommendation for EIT Urban Mobility’s startup investment portfolio further distinguish A2M as a highly valuable opportunity for emerging companies.

Notable Outcomes

Participants consistently praise the program for its practical insights and networking opportunities. Alumni like Berk Turanli of Link Robotics highlighted the technical knowledge gained during bootcamps. Mateusz Maj of VivaDrive valued the program for market entry and research, while Ruslana Dovzhyk of TechNovator found it instrumental for understanding the investment process and market launch strategies. Jiří Madeja of UDX Research appreciated learning about corporate structure, fundraising, and negotiation, demonstrating the comprehensive impact of the program on startup development.

What Participants Can Expect Day-to-Day

Startups can expect a dynamic and demanding six months. Day-to-day activities will involve a blend of online mentoring sessions, interactive workshops, and dedicated time for developing and refining their solutions. Participants will actively engage with mentors, collaborate with peers, and prepare for the intensive bootcamp. The program encourages a hands-on approach, with opportunities to apply learned concepts directly to their ventures and receive continuous feedback. The ultimate goal is to emerge with a more robust product, a clearer market strategy, and a stronger network, ready for the next stage of growth and potential investment.