Ambitious startups and SMEs who wish to take part in the train operators Future Labs programme have until next Sunday, 16 June, to submit their applications.

The programme was conceived in April when London North Eastern Railway, Northern, Southeastern and TransPennine Express joined forces for the project, popularly known as the ‘train operators’ Dragons Den’.

The Future Labs project aims to support innovation in the rail industry by pooling resources of the Four train operators and Network Rail into a common pool where ambitious startups and SMEs can develop solutions to improve performance, operational excellence, and customer experience, and develop people and talent.

The project sponsors are looking for cutting-edge technology where startups can apply their ideas to address common and emerging issues for the sector.

The programme lasts 12 weeks, and to help them develop their ideas, participants will be provided with access to industry data and resources.

Mentors and subject matter experts working for the train operators will also be available to help them with the projects.

Further information about Future Labs and application details are available on the Future Labs website at www.thefuturelabs.co.uk.

Transport for Wales has a similar programme called “Lab by Transport for Wales” where business innovators can develop their ideas to improve rail users’ experiences.

Future Labs is all about transforming the rail industry through open, pioneering and proven innovation.

By giving technology startups access to live environments and expert mentorship they can test their proposed solutions in a real-world environment.

Ultimately, this is all about advancing the passenger and employee experience as well as supporting performance and operational excellence.

But interested parties will have to be quick. The application process closes on Sunday 16 June.

Spokesperson on behalf of the four train operators