QBE Foundation partnership targets community climate resilience

QBE Foundation partnership targets community climate resilience | Insurance Business Australia

Non-Profits & Charities

QBE Foundation partnership targets community climate resilience

Collaboration introduces new element to foundation’s initiative

Non-Profits & Charities

By
Roxanne Libatique

The QBE Foundation has aligned with the Australian Red Cross and Leading Cities to foster innovation in community climate resilience.

This new segment aims to explore the potential of technology in making significant strides in community resilience, specifically through improved data utilisation and localised action.

Starting April 1, 2024, technology innovators worldwide are invited to engage in the challenge. Entrants have the potential to win a portion of the US$150,000 prize pool, execute a pilot project in Australia in collaboration with the Australian Red Cross, and benefit from an extensive network of professional guidance, investment opportunities, and mentorship.

Using technology and local knowledge to address climate change impact

Viv Bower, who serves as the QBE group executive for corporate affairs & sustainability and presides over the global QBE Foundation, emphasised the initiative’s commitment to community empowerment.

“Consistent with our focus of creating strong, resilient, and inclusive communities, the QBE Foundation is proud to partner with Australian Red Cross Humanitech and Leading Cities to address the humanitarian impacts of climate change. By leveraging our collective expertise, resources, and networks, we have an opportunity to drive meaningful change at scale in the face of climate challenges,” she said.

Echoing this sentiment, Australian Red Cross Humanitech head Katy Southall highlighted the critical role of integrating technological innovation with local knowledge and scientific research to address the effects of climate change on communities.

“We’re seeking game-changers from the tech world and software solutions that bridge the gap between data, community resilience decision-making, and local action. Together, we can empower communities with the tools they need to build a safer, more resilient future by putting them at the heart of the process,” she said.

Leading Cities CEO Michael Lake spoke on the partnership’s dedication to enhancing community resilience.

“This partnership directly engages and accelerates the efforts of those at the frontlines of the climate crisis – city leaders dealing with the devastating impacts to their communities, and entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions to increase community resiliency and sustainability,” he said.