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GoAERO Prize: Fostering Innovation in Aerial Emergency Response

Updated: Feb 22

The GoAERO Prize is a global competition aimed at stimulating the development of innovative aerial solutions for emergency response. The competition, backed by aerospace leaders like Boeing and NASA, seeks to foster life-saving aerial technologies and ensure their safe future deployment.


The GoAERO Prize, a global competition, is inviting entrepreneurs, engineers, students, and businesses to create innovative aerial solutions for emergency response. This groundbreaking initiative emphasizes the development of technologies capable of rescuing people, delivering first responders, supplying emergency needs, and supporting humanitarian efforts in crises.


The Vision of GoAERO

As the CEO of GoAERO, Gwen Lighter has highlighted the critical role these technologies can play in assisting emergency responders who risk their lives across various crisis scenarios. This competition, endorsed by aerospace leaders like Boeing and NASA, is not just a contest but a platform for participants to gain access to mentorship, technical expertise, and resources. Through this, GoAERO aims to foster the development of life-saving aerial technologies and ensure their safe future deployment.


The GoAERO Prize: A Three-Stage Competition

The competition comprises three rigorous stages. It begins with a digital submission of technical papers, followed by a building phase for concept validation. The third and final stage, the Final Fly-Off, requires participants to complete real-world emergency missions with their developed flyers. With over $2 million in total prizes, the competition promises a top award of $750,000, along with other prestigious awards like the $100,000 Disruptor Award and Autonomy Award.


Global Aerial Solutions: A Step Towards a Safer Future

The GoAERO Prize spans across a three-year period and seeks to attract teams interested in contributing to a safer and more responsive future in the face of disasters and emergencies. This initiative aligns with recent global developments in aerial solutions for emergencies. For instance, Canadian air ambulance provider STARS recently completed its first-ever helicopter neonatal transport. Meanwhile, Bulgaria received its first helicopter from the newly established helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) system, and Australian aerospace firm AMSL Aero received an order for 10 of its Vertiia hydrogen electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. These advancements, coupled with new strides in helipad design and avionics upgrades, underscore the increasing importance of innovative aerial solutions in emergency response.


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