Innovate Calgary’s Aerospace Innovation Hub, The Calgary Airport Authority (The Authority) and the WestJet Group (WestJet) are launching a call for applicants with innovative ideas that will help advance the guest experience and take exceptional ideas to new heights.
Companies and teams with innovative solutions are encouraged to apply:
We welcome applications that elevate the guest experience at every touchpoint and address the following areas of concern:
- Seamless Booking, Check-In and Airport Experience: Solutions that streamline the booking and check-in process, including those with multiple airlines bookings, making it faster, easier, and more user-friendly across all platforms (website, mobile app, kiosks) and creating an expedited and enhanced airport experience from curb to gate.
- Streamlined Baggage Handling: Solutions that improve baggage handling efficiency, minimizing lost or delayed luggage and increasing passenger peace of mind (e.g., real-time baggage tracking, assured priority baggage delivery, automated baggage sorting systems, increased scanning compliance, baggage delivery to destination (e.g., hotel).
- Disruptive Solutions: An open category for unconventional or novel solutions that could impact the aviation and travel sectors in unexpected or significant ways.
Companies whose applications show exceptional promise will be invited to an online interview and pitch event, which will result in the selection of up to three companies.
The winning applicants will join the Aerospace Innovation Hub to develop, customize, and validate their technology with the support of WestJet and The Authority.
The deadline for submissions is April 25, 2025, at 23.59 PM MST (GMT-7). Terms and Conditions.
FAQs:
Who can apply?
The call is open to all startup companies and SMEs worldwide with fewer than 100 employees and an annual revenue not exceeding one million Canadian dollars. Companies must be incorporated in Canada within 1 month of being selected as a winner.
How is the winner chosen?
Applications meeting the assessment criteria will be reviewed by a panel of judges. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present their solution to the panel virtually. Up to 3 winners will be selected.
What does the winner receive?
Winners will receive a complimentary membership at Innovate Calgary’s Aerospace Innovation hub, mentorship from WestJet, The Calgary Airport Authority, and Innovate Calgary subject matter experts, access to operational facilities and data at WestJet and The Authority for solution testing and validation and introductions to potential customers, investors and industry partners.